PRESS RELEASE | Nov. 25, 2008
Coalition forces disrupt two terrorist networks in eastern Afghanistan
By None , U.S. Forces – Afghanistan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nov. 25, 2008
Release Number 20082511-02
Coalition forces disrupt two terrorist networks in eastern Afghanistan
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed six armed militants and detained 12 suspected militants during operations Monday to disrupt the Hizb-e-Islami Gulbuddin, or HIG, and Haqqani terrorist networks in Kapisa and Paktika provinces.
An operation in Tagab District, Kapisa province, targeted an HIG commander known to traffic large-scale weapons used to conduct attacks in the region against civilians, Afghan National Security Forces and Coalition forces. Intelligence also indicated the commander planned and coordinated recent attacks in the area that have killed and injured civilians, ANSF and Coalition forces.
During the operation in Tagab, Coalition forces received small-arms fire from multiple armed militants attempting to maneuver on Coalition forces. Coalition forces responded with small-arms fire, killing five militants. A search of the compound found AK-47s and other military style equipment which were destroyed to prevent future use. Coalition forces detained seven suspected militants. They also provided protection for 11 women and 18 children during the operation.
In Ziruk District, Paktika province, Coalition forces killed one armed militant and detained five suspected militants during an operation targeting a known Haqqani subcommander who is believed to facilitate the movement of weapons and foreign fighters into the region.
As Coalition forces entered the targeted building, they were immediately engaged by an armed militant. Coalition forces responded with small-arms fire, killing him. Another militant was found holding an explosive device detonator in his hand, but he decided to surrender.
“Coalition forces are continuing operations against the terrorists who want to prevent Afghanistan from achieving the peaceful progress its people want,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, spokesman for U.S. Forces Afghanistan. “At the same time, we will take every step to protect innocent civilians during our operations, just as we did yesterday in Tagab.”
-30-
United States Forces Afghanistan’s mission, in coordination with NATO’s International Security Assistance Force, is to conduct operations to defeat terrorist networks and insurgents by developing effective governance and building the Afghan National Security Force. Effective security throughout the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan facilitates continued regional stability and increases economic development for the people of Afghanistan.
Contact Information – US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs Office
Tel +93 (0) 799 51 2919 or cell phone 0093 (0) 707 355 965