KABUL, Afghanistan – International Security Assistance Force has initiated an investigation into an operation conducted in Faryab province, Dec. 23, that led to the inadvertent death of two individuals and the wounding of two others.
A joint security force attempted to interdict a group of suspected insurgents travelling in a single vehicle in Maimanah district. The vehicle failed to stop following verbal commands and warning shots.
The operation was based on specific intelligence targeting a known senior Taliban leader in Almar district. The insurgent is assessed to have regular contact with Taliban leaders in Pakistan and a proxy Taliban shadow governor relaying messages and coordinating financing and attacks. He also is alleged to have ties to a vehicle born improved explosive device network in the Faryab region.
Following the engagement of the vehicle by the joint assault force, two individuals were found dead with two others wounded. The security force provided medical attention to the wounded individuals and medically evacuated them from the area. A fifth man was unharmed and turned over to Afghan security forces.
Subsequently, local officials at the scene advised the joint force they believed the men were not linked to the targeted Taliban leader.
“While we take extraordinary care in conducting operations to avoid civilian casualties, unfortunately in this instance it appears innocent men were mistakenly targeted. We send our sincere condolences to their families and friends,” said U.S. Air Force Col. James Dawkins, ISAF Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director. “We take seriously our duty to protect the Afghan population from insurgent violence, and we deeply regret this incident.”
The governor of Faryab has been briefed on the incident, and ISAF will work closely with Afghan government officials to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation.