ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR JUNE 03, 2013

 

U.S. Army Sgt. Christopher Ross, left, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Olin Harrington, center, and U.S. Army Spc. Jared Malda, right, provide security for their team outside a village in Zabul province, Afghanistan, May 26, 2013. Ross, Harrington and Malda, assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division's 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, were part of an Afghan-led search for weapon and explosive caches. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Tim Morgan

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Afghan Force Kills 20 Enemy Fighters in Paktika Province

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, June 3, 2013 - An Afghan quick-reaction force killed 20 enemy fighters and detained another while responding to an attack on a local police checkpoint in the Orgun-e district of Afghanistan's Paktika province yesterday, military officials reported.

The Afghan force engaged an unknown number of enemies shortly after being dispatched by the district operations center, officials said.

In other Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined Afghan and coalition security force in Nangarhar province's Khugyani district arrested a Taliban leader who has conducted numerous attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also coordinates the movement of weapons and fighters and performs limited intelligence duties for local Taliban networks.

-- In the Helmand province city of Lashkar Gah, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who controls a group responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also is involved in the construction and emplacement of improvised explosive devices, facilitates the movement of weapons and receives guidance from senior Taliban officials for dissemination to front-line fighters. The security force also arrested another enemy fighter and seized ammunition and five assault-rifle magazines.

In June 1 operations:

-- A Haqqani network leader was killed in Paktia province's Gardez district. Faizullah, also known as Shahab, conducted IED attacks and intimidation campaigns targeting Afghan and coalition forces. He facilitated the movement of weapons and military equipment and was responsible for kidnapping operations and coordinating with senior Haqqani leaders.

-- In Zabul province's Shah Joy district, local police and coalition forces seized and destroyed three rifles, two pistols, a 107 mm rocket, a machine gun, a shotgun and assorted ammunition.

-- A combined force in Helmand province's Marjah district arrested a Taliban leader who is responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also is involved in the construction of vehicle-borne IEDs and provides operational reports to other Taliban fighters. The security force also seized a mortar round and an assault rifle.

-- In Kandahar province's city of Kandahar, a combined force arrested an enemy fighter during a search for a Taliban leader who controls a group responsible for coordinating attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also has directed assassinations of Afghan civilians and has facilitated the movement of weapons.

-- A combined force in Nangarhar province's Khugyani district arrested two enemy fighters during a search for a senior Taliban leader who oversees a group involved in ambushes, IED operations and complex attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also facilitates the movement of weapons and serves as an intelligence operative for senior Taliban officials. The security force also seized 8 pounds of opium.

ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR MAY 28. 2013

A U.S. Marine offloads a container after conducting a combat logistics patrol to Forward Operating Base Shukvani in Helmand province, Afghanistan, May 19, 2013. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Anthony L. Ortiz

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Security Force Arrests Haqqani Network Leader
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases
WASHINGTON, May 28, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani network leader and seven other insurgents during an operation in the Gardez district of Afghanistan's Paktia province today, military officials reported.

The Haqqani leader is responsible for kidnappings of Afghan civilians, coordinates the movement of weapons and plans and executes attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force in Kandahar province's Kandahar City arrested a Taliban leader who controls a cell responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the Panjwai district. He also is involved in financing insurgent operations, procuring weapons and conducting reconnaissance of Afghan and coalition installations. The security force also arrested another insurgent.

-- In Kandahar's Panjwai district, a combined force arrested three insurgents during a search for a Taliban facilitator who is responsible for acquiring weapons and equipment for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also directs local improvised explosive device operations and manages weapons caches. The security force also seized opium in the operation.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force in Baghlan province's Baghlan-e Jadid district killed three insurgents during a search for a senior Taliban leader who facilitates IED attacks and manages insurgent weapon distribution.

-- In Kunar province's Watahpur district, a combined force killed two insurgents during a search for a senior leader who is responsible for al-Qaida operations in the Waygal and Watahpur Valley. He oversees al-Qaida training in Nuristan, and he plans and conducts attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force in Helmand province's Nad-e Ali district arrested a senior Taliban leader who oversees a cell responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also procures weapons for insurgents and manages Taliban personnel actions in his area. The security force also arrested eight other insurgents and seized three rifles.

-- In Helmand's Nahr-e Saraj district, a combined force arrested a senior Taliban leader who controls insurgents responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also runs IED operations in two districts and has handled logistics for suicide bombings. The security force also arrested another insurgent and seized a pistol.

-- A combined force in Kandahar province's Zharay district arrested a Taliban leader who coordinates IED activity and facilitates Taliban weapon movement. The security force also arrested another insurgent.

In May 26 operations:

-- A combined force killed two insurgents during a search in Paktia province's Sayyid Karam district for a senior Haqqani network leader who is involved with IED attacks, coordinates insurgent movement and attacks, and provides information to senior Haqqani leaders. He also facilitates the movement of IEDs, weapons and money into the area.

-- In Logar province's Pul-e Alam district, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network high-profile attack facilitator who also houses transient Taliban commanders when they pass through his area. The security force also arrested another insurgent and seized more than 50 pounds of bomb-making materials.

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator who provides weapons and equipment for insurgent groups and coordinates suicide-bombing operations. The security force also arrested another insurgent.

In May 25 operations:

-- Afghan special forces soldiers, local police and coalition forces killed 22 insurgents after insurgents engaged the combined force with fire in Ghazni province's Gelan district. The forces were in the area to discuss the construction of future local police checkpoints with local residents when the incident took place. An Afghan quick reaction force joined the fight shortly after local police radioed the district operations coordination center for reinforcements. Following the engagement, Afghan forces recovered five motorcycles, weapons and ammunition.

-- In Nangarhar province's Achin district, a combined force killed eight insurgents during a search for a senior Taliban leader who has planned, coordinated and executed attacks against Afghan government facilities and against Afghan and coalition forces. He controls insurgent groups and relays operational guidance to them from senior Taliban leadership.

-- A combined force in Paktiya province's Gardez district arrested a Haqqani network high-profile attack facilitator who acquires weapons and equipment and distributes them to local insurgent groups. At the time of this arrest, officials said, he was actively planning an attack involving several suicide bombers. The security force also arrested another insurgent.

-- In Kandahar province's Arghandab district, a combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator responsible for procuring IEDs and distributing them to insurgent groups. He also is involved in indirect-fire attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also arrested two other insurgents and seized a handgun.

In May 24 operations:

-- Afghan local police killed a Taliban insurgent and wounded two others while defending the Haji Safraz checkpoint in Kunduz province's Archi district. The local police returned fire after Taliban fighters attacked the checkpoint with small-arms fire.

-- In Kandahar province's Mya Neshin district, Afghan special forces and local and uniformed police killed an insurgent while responding to an ambush targeting the district police chief.

-- A combined force in Logar province's Muhammad Aghah district killed two insurgents and wounded two others during a search for a Haqqani network-affiliated Taliban leader who plans, facilitates and executes attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He purchases and distributes explosives, weapons and equipment for Taliban and Haqqani insurgent cells.

-- Provincial Response Company Ghazni, enabled by coalition forces, found and destroyed more than a ton of potassium chlorate, an ingredient in homemade explosives, in Ghazni province's Dey Yak district.

ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Bryan B. Battaglia, right, senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, discusses operations with the 4th Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division key leaders during a briefing on Forward Operating Base Gamberi, Laghman province, Afghanistan, May 4, 2013. Battaglia is visiting troops in Afghanistan and meeting with key leaders to gain insight on current and future operations. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Kent Redmond

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Arrests Taliban Leader in Helmand Province
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, May 7, 2013 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader and three other insurgents during an operation in the Lashkar Gah district of Afghanistan's Helmand province today, military officials reported.

The arrested leader oversees a group of insurgent fighters responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also regularly provides operational updates to senior Taliban leadership and distributes weapons to other insurgent cells in the local area.

Also today, combined forces confirmed the death of Khialuddin, an insurgent leader with ties to the Taliban and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, during a May 5 operation in the Baghlan-e Jadid district of Baghlan province. Khialuddin -- also known as Shahbudin or Karwan -- directed improvised explosive device operations targeting senior government officials and Afghan and coalition forces throughout Baghlan province. He also worked with Taliban senior leaders to disseminate information to low-level insurgent fighters and facilitated money and weapons to insurgent groups.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined force killed one insurgent during a search for a Taliban leader in the Shirin Tagab district of Faryab province. The sought-after insurgent leader leads a cell of 15 insurgents responsible for attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. He also arranges the purchase of weapons for Taliban operations and coordinates training for new insurgents. He and his fighters are also responsible for multiple IED attacks in the area.

-- Afghan National Army Special Forces and Afghan National Police, enabled by coalition forces, detained an IED-maker and discovered a weapons cache in Katu village in the Shinkai district of Zabul province. The cache contained three tactical vests, two rifles, IED-making materials and an unknown quantity of ammonium nitrate.

-- A combined force wounded one insurgent during a search for a Haqqani leader in the Musa Khel district of Khost province. The sought-after insurgent leader is responsible for weapons facilitation and also plans attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also has coordinated the movement of IEDs, mortar rounds and other weapons throughout the Musa Khel district.

-- An Afghan police member apprehended a suicide bomber after an attempted attack on another police member in his home in the Sar Howzah district of Paktika province. Reportedly, the suspect entered the home, attempted to shoot the occupants with an AK-47 rifle that misfired, and then attempted to detonate his suicide vest.

In May 5 operations:

-- A combined force seized a large quantity of narcotics at a vehicle search checkpoint in the western Dashte area of Helmand province. The combined force discovered 450 kilograms of wet opium and 6 kilograms of pure heroin with an estimated street value of $200,000. The security force also seized some small-arms weapons. All of the narcotics were destroyed.

-- Provincial Response Company Wardak, enabled by coalition forces, seized a cache containing 1,200 pounds of homemade explosives in the Nerkh district of Wardak province.

ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR MAY 2, 2013

 

U.S. soldiers and law enforcement professionals dismount a Stryker-armored vehicle after arriving for the tactical site exploitation class in the Spin Boldak district of Afghanistan’s Kandahar province, April 25, 2013. The soldiers are assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division's 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, Task Force 435. The class certified Afghan police as instructors in crime scene investigation techniques. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Shane Hamann.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Kills Haqqani Network Leader in Paktia Province
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, May 2, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed a Haqqani network leader and another insurgent during an operation in the Zurmat district of Afghanistan's Paktia province yesterday, military officials reported.
Sarwar Khan, also known as Manzala, planned insurgent operations, reported intelligence to senior leaders, and was involved in kidnappings. He built improvised explosive devices and coordinated IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In other Afghanistan operations yesterday:
-- A combined force in Baghlan province's Baghlan-e Jadid district wounded two insurgents during a search for a Taliban IED cell leader with ties to the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan who directs IED operations targeting government officials and Afghan and coalition forces throughout Kunduz province. He also works directly with Taliban senior leadership to disseminate information to low-level fighters, and is vital in obtaining money and weapons for local insurgent groups.
-- In Kandahar province's Shah Wali Kot district, a combined force killed an insurgent during a search for a Taliban leader who is responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He and his subordinates are involved in IED operations, poppy cultivation and distribution, and weapons facilitation.
-- Afghan Provincial Response Company Zabul, enabled by coalition forces, killed an insurgent, arrested three others and seized weapons and ammunition in Zabul province's Shah Joy district. The security force recovered two assault rifles, 13 assault-rifle magazines and ammunition, and destroyed a rocket-propelled grenade propellant charge, two motorcycles and bomb-making materials.
-- Also in Zabul's Shah Joy district, Afghan special forces troops, enabled by coalition forces, captured an insurgent leader during an operation to disrupt a known IED facilitation network.
-- Acting on information received from the district police chief, Afghan special forces troops found and destroyed 27 IEDs, assault-rifle magazines and miscellaneous military equipment in Helmand province's Nahr-e-Saraj district.
-- A combined force in Nangarhar province's Nazyan district killed an insurgent and wounded two others during a search for a senior insurgent leader with ties to the Tehrik-e Taliban and Haqqani terrorist networks that plan high-profile attacks against civilians, government officials and Afghan and coalition forces. He has control of more than 100 fighters, including potential suicide bombers. He also runs a training camp for indoctrinating prospective insurgents.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR FEBRUARY 19, 2013

U.S. Army Capt. Andrew Jenkins uses the optic lens on his weapon to scan the valley below for signs of insurgents while on a security patrol in Khowst province, Afghanistan, Jan. 31. 2013. Jenkins is the commander of the 101st Airborne Division’s Troop B, 1st Squadron, 33rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Zach Holden

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Precision Strike Kills Insurgents in Kunar Province

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19, 2013 - A precision strike in the Ghaziabad district of Afghanistan's Kunar province yesterday killed two insurgents, military officials reported.

Afghan and coalition forces saw the two men engaging in insurgent activity and called in the strike, officials said.

In other Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined Afghan and coalition security force in Kandahar province's Panjwai district arrested a Taliban leader who was believed to be responsible for coordinating improvised explosive device operations against local police. He also was responsible for IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and Afghan civilians.

-- In Kandahar province's Arghistan district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who allegedly is responsible for an IED attack network in the province's Spin Boldak, Arghistan and Maruf districts. He also is believed to have distributed ammunition and heavy weapons to insurgents.

-- Also in Kandahar's Arghistan district, a combined force detained three insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader believed to be responsible for acquiring and distributing weapons and conducting attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force ordered a precision strike that killed an insurgent in Ghazni province's Andar district.

-- A combined force in Kunduz province's Aliabad district arrested six insurgents associated with a Taliban IED expert who allegedly oversees attacks on Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Paktia province's Gardez district, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network facilitator who allegedly has been involved with vehicle-borne IED attacks in Khost and Paktia provinces. He also is accused of conducting the movement of insurgent fighters between Gardez and Jalalabad districts for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized a rifle and ammunition.

-- A combined force in Nangarhar province's Khugyani district arrested a Taliban leader who allegedly provided operational guidance to other local Taliban leaders and oversaw 10 insurgents who used heavy weapons and explosives to attack Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained another suspect and seized ammunition.

-- In Logar province's Charkh district, a combined force arrested two insurgents while searching for a senior Taliban leader suspected of directing attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and supplying weapons and IEDs to insurgents. The security force also seized a rifle and ammunition as a result.

In Feb. 17 operations:

-- A combined force killed senior Taliban leader Khan Mohammad and another insurgent after seeing them engaged in insurgent activity in Helmand province's Musa Qalah district. Khan Mohammad, also known as Shams, coordinated direct attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and participated in Taliban kidnapping operations. He facilitated the supply of weapons to insurgents.

-- In Baghlan province's Baghlan-e Jadid district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who allegedly oversaw the gathering and coordinating of munitions, fighters and logistics for higher-level Taliban leaders. He is suspected of facilitating the movement of fighters and heavy weapons for a planned attack against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained two other suspected insurgents.

-- A combined force in Helmand province's Nad-e Ali district detained four insurgents while searching for a Taliban leader suspected of overseeing insurgents responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Logar province's Charkh district, a combined force killed two insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader believed to transport weapons and explosives and oversee IED operations in the district. The security force also seized assault rifles with ammunition and several grenades in the operation.

-- A combined force in Nangarhar province's Sherzad district killed an insurgent during a search for a Taliban leader who oversees 20 insurgents responsible for attacks against Afghan and collation forces. The security force also seized assault rifles with associated gear and several grenades in the operation.

-- In Kandahar province's Panjwai district, a combined force killed a Taliban leader who coordinated and executed attacks against Afghan local police checkpoints and personnel. He was a weapons expert, and recently involved in taking three local police officers hostage, officials said.

-- A combined force in Helmand province's Nad-e Ali district arrested a Taliban leader believed to oversee insurgents responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He oversaw procurement and delivery of weapons and IEDs to insurgents and is suspected of personally executing high-profile IED attacks, officials said. The security force also detained three other suspected insurgents.

In Feb. 16 operations:

-- A combined force in Khost province's Khost district arrested a high-profile attack facilitator believed to be associated with both Taliban and Haqqani insurgent networks. He is accused of assisting in the transfer and delivery of heavy weapons, equipment and ammunition and of coordinating a vehicle-borne IED attack targeting Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained two other suspected insurgents and seized firearms and ammunition.

-- In Logar province's Pul-e Alam district, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network facilitator believed to be responsible for planning and preparing attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces and facilitating the acquisition of IEDs and other weapons. He also allegedly produced and transported homemade explosives and executed IED attacks. The security force also detained two other suspected insurgents.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR JANUARY 30, 2013

 

U.S. Marine Corps Captain Mastin Robeson stands next to Route 611 to prepare for a convoy during Operation New Hope in Kajaki, Afghanistan, Jan. 18, 2013. Robeson, a team leader, is assigned to Security Force Assistance Advisor Team, Regimental Combat Team 7. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Mark Garcia

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Arrests Taliban Leaders in Helmand Province
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Jan. 30, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested two Taliban leaders today in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Afghanistan's Helmand province, military officials reported.

One is believed to be directly responsible for orchestrating assassinations of Afghan national security force members, overseeing attacks on police checkpoints and directing attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also is accused of having organized the acquisition and transfer of heavy weapons and improvised explosive devices to Taliban fighters.

The other is believed to be directly responsible for the transport and financing of IED-making materials, planting IEDs and executing IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

The security force also detained four other suspected insurgents.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force in Kunduz province's Khanabad district arrested a Taliban leader accused of planning and executing IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and Afghan government officials. He also is believed to have provided financial and logistical support to Taliban and suicide-bomber operations throughout Kunduz province. The security force also detained two other suspected insurgents and seized several firearms.

-- In Nangarhar province's Khugyani district, a combined force killed two insurgents and detained nine others after being fired upon while searching for a man suspected of providing logistical support to Taliban leaders. The security force also seized several firearms and associated ammunition. No civilians were harmed during the operation, officials said.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTANT

Photo:  Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Army.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Arrests Haqqani Network Facilitator
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani network facilitator in the Pul-e Alam district of Afghanistan's Logar province today, military officials reported.

The facilitator acquired and delivered weapons to Haqqani fighters in the province and was directly involved in attacks against local police and Afghan government officials.

During the operation, the security force seized weapons, ammunition and $5,800 in Afghan currency.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined security force in Helmand province's Lashkar Gah district arrested a Taliban leader who controlled improvised explosive device operations. Insurgents under his control recently began using magnetic IEDs to target Afghan army vehicles. He also was responsible for directing insurgent attacks against coalition forces.

-- In Kandahar province's Spin Boldak district, a combined force arrested a local Taliban leader who was directly responsible for IED attacks. The security force also detained a suspected insurgent.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force in Paktia province's Dzadran district detained a suspected insurgent while searching for a Haqqani network facilitator who provides weapons and IEDs to insurgents.

-- A combined force killed a Taliban leader and his subordinate in Kunduz province's Khanabad district. The pair worked together to coordinate and execute IED attacks. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized firearms with associated gear and ammunition.

-- In Logar province's Pul-e Alam district, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network leader responsible for coordinating attacks targeting Afghan and coalition force, and overseeing the procurement and distribution of weapons to insurgents. He recently coordinated the acquisition of suicide vest materials in preparation for a future attack. The security force also detained one suspected insurgent.

In Jan. 20 operations:

-- A precision airstrike in Kunduz province's Khanabad district killed a Taliban attack facilitator involved in planning and executing IED attacks and facilitating the movement of weapons and explosives. The strike also killed a second insurgent.

-- A combined force in Paktia province's Zurmat district arrested a Taliban leader who acted as a liaison with senior Haqqani network leaders and oversaw the purchase and storage of rocket-propelled grenades and other weapons and ammunition. He also facilitated the movement of suicide bombers in the Afghan capital and was planning an attack at the time of his arrest. The security force also detained several suspected insurgents and seized grenades, weapons and ammunition.

-- In Helmand province's Nahr-e Saraj district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who planned and directed suicide attacks and coordinated the movement of materials used to build suicide vests. He also provided direct financial support to the Taliban.

-- A combined force in Paktia province's Sayyid Karam district arrested a senior Haqqani network leader who oversaw IED construction, storage, transportation and emplacement. He also oversaw the acquisition of weapons and ammunition. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized firearms.

-- In Kandahar province's Maiwand district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who planned and conducted attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and facilitated the movement of IEDs, rockets, mortars and other weapons. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents.

-- A combined force in Logar province's Pul-e Alam district arrested a local Taliban leader who worked closely with senior Taliban leaders to coordinate insurgent attacks across several provinces. He also organized the transfer and delivery of weapons and ammunition to insurgents and was coordinating the movement of suicide bombers for a future attack.

In Jan. 19 operations:

-- Afghan and coalition forces in Kunar province's Ghaziabad district killed two insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader who organizes attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and enabled the movement of insurgents.

-- In Nangarhar province's Sherzad district, a combined force killed a local Taliban leader and arrested another. Both were involved in IED operations. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized weapons and ammunition.

-- A combined force in Khost province's Terayzai district arrested a Haqqani network leader who directed attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also oversaw the construction and delivery of IEDs to insurgents and helped acquire IED components, ammunition and detonation materials. The security force also detained a suspected insurgent.

In Jan. 18 operations:

-- In Helmand province's Nahr-e Saraj district, a combined force arrested a local Taliban leader who planned IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained one suspected insurgent.

-- A combined force in Kandahar province's Arghandab district arrested a local Taliban leader who coordinated and executed IED attacks and oversaw the distribution of IEDs, weapons and ammunition to insurgents. The security force also detained a suspected insurgent.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR DECEMBER 31, 2012

Loading Supplies.  U.S. Army Photo By Staff Sgt. Brendan Makie

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Arrests Taliban Leader
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases


WASHINGTON, Dec. 31, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader and detained one other suspected insurgent during an operation in the Nad 'Ali district of Afghanistan's Helmand province today, military officials reported.

The arrested Taliban leader planned and coordinated improvised explosive device attacks and ambushes against Afghan and coalition forces, officials said.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force arrested a Haqqani leader in the Pul-e 'Alam district of Logar province. The arrested Haqqani leader coordinated IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also facilitated the distribution of weapons, IEDs and suicide vests to insurgents.

-- A combined force arrested two suspected insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader in the Andar district of Ghazni province. The sought-after Taliban leader commands a large number of insurgents and directs IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force killed several armed insurgents in the Ghaziabad district of Kunar province.

-- In the Pul-e 'Alam district of Logar province, a combined force arrested a Haqqani facilitator, detained one other suspect and seized some Afghan National Army uniforms. The arrested Haqqani facilitator supplied weapons and IED-making materials to insurgents. He is also linked to rocket, IED and direct-fire attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

And in a Dec. 29 operation, a combined force arrested two local Taliban leaders and detained one other suspect in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar province. The arrested Taliban leaders provided IED-making materials to insurgents and conducted attacks in the district.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR DECEMBER 11, 2012

Credit:  U.S. DOD 

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFeNSE

Combined Force Arrests Taliban Facilitator
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 11, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban facilitator and detained two suspected insurgents during an operation in the Nad 'Ali district of Afghanistan's Helmand province today, military officials reported.

The detained facilitator oversaw the shipment and transfer of weapons and ammunition and procured and distributed improvised explosive devices to insurgents in the district.

In an operation yesterday, a combined force killed the Taliban leader, Allah Nur, detained three suspects and seized homemade explosives, other IED-making materials and several rocket-propelled grenades in the Baghlan-e-Jadid district of Baghlan province. Allah Nur had controlled more than a dozen insurgents and was responsible for IED attacks in the district. He also oversaw the transportation and distribution of insurgent weapons and ammunition.

And, during a Dec. 9 security operation in the Qarghahi district of Laghman province, a combined force killed the Taliban leader, Amin Jan, and three other insurgents. Amin Jan was directly involved in the Dec. 5 kidnapping of an American aid worker in Kabul.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR DECEMBER 7, 2012

Logar Province, Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Department Of Defense.

FROM: U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT

Combined Force Arrests Haqqani Leader
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 7, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani leader during an operation in the Mota Khan district of Afghanistan's Paktika province today, military officials reported.

The arrested Haqqani leader planned and conducted improvised explosive device attacks and was involved in organizing the Oct. 20 kidnapping of five Afghan soldiers, officials said.

The security force also detained three other suspected insurgents and seized IED-making materials and multiple firearms, officials said.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- In the Lashkar Gah district of Helmand province, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who oversaw a group of insurgents responsible for conducting IED attacks in the central Nad 'Ali district. The security force also detained two other suspects.

-- In the Kandahar district of Kandahar province, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader and one other suspect. The detained Taliban leader was responsible for transporting and distributing homemade explosives and IED-making components to insurgents.

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban leader and detained one other suspect in the Pul-e 'Alam district of Logar province. The arrested Taliban leader operated in Logar province's Khoshi district and facilitated the acquisition and distribution of weapons in the Khoshi and Plu-e 'Alam districts. He also oversaw the training of suicide bombers and provided support to Taliban insurgents traveling through the province.

-- A combined force killed three insurgents, detained multiple suspects and seized numerous weapons, grenades and ammunition during a search for a Taliban facilitator in the Sherzad district of Nangarhar province.

-- A combined force arrested a Haqqani leader, detained one other suspect and seized numerous weapons in the Khost district of Khost province. The detained Haqqani leader was responsible for overseeing attacks and coordinating IED emplacement in Khost City. He also facilitated the movement of IED-making materials and weapons to insurgents.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 23, 2012

Photo:  Refueling Over Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Air Force.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Arrests Taliban Leader

From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 23, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader in Afghanistan's Kandahar province yesterday, military officials reported.

The arrested Taliban leader coordinated improvised explosive device emplacements and ambushes against Afghan and coalition forces, officials said.

The security force detained two other suspected insurgents.

In Nov. 21 Afghanistan operations:

-- Three Taliban senior leaders, including the No. 1 Taliban leader in western Logar province, were killed Nov. 21 during a security operation in Logar province. At the time of his death, Abu Baker was the top Taliban leader in western Logar province. Abu Baker facilitated weapons to insurgents, planned attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and was directly involved in foreign fighter facilitation. Deceased Taliban leader Bashir was involved in the Aug. 7 suicide-vehicle IED attack on Forward Operating Base Shank, and directly linked to the final, pre-execution stages of planning for an impending vehicle-borne IED attack targeting Afghan and coalition forces in Logar province, officials said. Deceased Taliban leader Zarqawi facilitated weapons to execute IED as well as direct- and indirect-fire attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. A number of additional insurgents were also killed. One suspect was detained and several rocket-propelled grenades and multiple assault rifles were confiscated.

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator in Kunduz province. The arrested facilitator is suspected of being directly involved in the purchasing and distribution of weapons to Taliban fighters. The security force also detained one other suspect and seized rocket-propelled grenades, mortars, hand grenades, assault rifles and ammunition.

-- Combined forces arrested a Taliban senior leader in Nimroz province. The arrested insurgent leader is suspected of being involved in the purchasing and movement of weapons and providing intelligence to other Taliban senior leaders. The security force also detained a number of other suspects.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 14, 2012

Photo Credit:  U.S. Army.

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Arrests Taliban Weapons Facilitator

From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 14, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban weapons and ammunition facilitator in Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials said.

Before his arrest, the Taliban facilitator was reportedly arranging to buy rocket-propelled grenades and a large quantity of assault-style rifles for insurgents in the province.

The force also detained three suspected insurgents and seized several assault rifles, other firearms and body armor.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force in Kandahar province arrested a Taliban leader who organized improvised explosive device attacks. The Taliban leader is believed responsible for coordinating and carrying out IED attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces in the province.

-- A combined force arrested four insurgents in Helmand province during a search for a Taliban explosives expert.

-- A combined force arrested a Haqqani weapons facilitator in Logar province. The detained Haqqani facilitator is allegedly responsible for transferring weapons, arming insurgent groups and planning attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. The force also detained an additional suspected insurgent and seized firearms and ammunition.

-- A combined force arrested a suspected insurgent in Ghazni province during a search for a Taliban IED and indirect-fire expert.

In Nov. 12 operations:

-- A Taliban weapons facilitator was arrested in Helmand province. The detained Taliban leader allegedly regularly distributed heavy weapons and ammunition to Taliban fighters in the province.

-- A Haqqani IED facilitator was arrested in in Paktiya province. The detained Haqqani leader is believed to be in charge of building, transporting and placing IEDs in the province.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN OCTOBER 15, 2012

U.S. Gen. Allen Visits Womans Baazar In Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. DOD Photo. 

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Arrests Haqqani Leader in Ghazni

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Oct. 15, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani network leader in Afghanistan's Ghazni province yesterday, military officials reported.

The detained Haqqani leader is believed to be directly associated with suicide-bombing and improvised explosive device attacks, officials said.

In other Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- Shafiullah, a Taliban leader accused of planning and executing a May 29, 2011, attack that killed three coalition service members was killed in an operation in Ghazni province.

-- An Afghan and coalition force in Paktia province arrested several insurgents during a search for a Taliban senior leader believed to oversee IED operations throughout the province.

-- In Helmand province, a combined force arrested several insurgents and seized 33 pounds of illegal narcotics during a search for a Taliban leader who operates in close coordination with Taliban senior leaders and conducts attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In Oct. 13 operations:
-- Taliban leader Qurashi, also known as Baz Khan and Zubair, was killed during an operation in Kunduz province. He was directly involved in planning and executing IED attacks.

-- A patrol of Afghan security forces, partnered with U.S. Special Forces soldiers, killed several insurgents when the coalition partners were ambushed in Paktia province. No civilians or security forces were killed or injured during the engagement.

-- An Afghan and coalition security force in Logar province killed Haqqani network leader Rahmatullah, also known as Qari Moktar or Mohammad Qasim Qari, who was responsible for coordinating attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Kandahar province, an Afghan-led security force, supported by coalition troops, arrested a Taliban leader who commanded a Taliban IED cell directly responsible for attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent.

-- Afghan and coalition forces killed two militants engaging in insurgent activity in Helmand province.

-- An Afghan and coalition force searching for a Taliban IED expert in Laghman province killed two insurgents and seized weapons and 13 pounds of illegal narcotics.

-- In Kunduz province, an Afghan and coalition security force searching for a Taliban leader killed several insurgents and seized weapons and grenades.

In Oct. 12 operations:
-- Afghan special operations soldiers, partnered with U.S. Special Forces, were ambushed by more than a dozen insurgents during a patrol in Paktia province. The combined force returned fire and used air support to kill the insurgents. No civilians or security forces were killed or injured during the engagement.

-- Afghan and coalition forces in Helmand province killed a Taliban leader who was believed to be responsible for directing attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces.

-- Taliban leader Qari Nasratullah was killed during an operation in Sar-e Pul province. He is believed to have commanded more than 20 Taliban fighters. The security force also seized weapons, grenades and associated gear.

-- Afghan and coalition forces killed two armed insurgents during operations in Ghazni province.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN, OCTOBER 2, 2012

Photo:  Harrier Jet.  Credit:  U.S. Department of Defense

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Arrests Taliban Leader
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release


KABUL, Afghanistan, Oct. 2, 2012 - An Afghan-led, coalition-supported force arrested a Taliban leader in the Maiwand district of Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

The arrested Taliban leader is suspected of reporting directly to the senior Taliban leader for the district and was responsible for coordinating and directing improvised explosive device emplacement operations, as well as insurgent attacks throughout the region, officials said.

Officials said the detained Taliban leader also is linked to the preparation of a vehicle-borne IED attack against Afghan and coalition force assets.

The security force also detained multiple suspected insurgents and seized an IED firing device and IED-making materials, officials said.

In other operations today:

-- A combined force arrested a senior Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader and weapons facilitator and detained two other suspects in the Chahar Darah district of Kunduz province. The arrested IMU leader is suspected of planning and conducting IED attacks throughout Kunduz province, as well as coordinating the movement of IED-making materials for attacks on Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force detained several suspects during an operation to arrest a Haqqani leader in the Pul-e 'Alam district of Logar province. The Haqqani leader is believed to oversee the distribution of weapons to support insurgent operations throughout Logar province.

-- A combined force detained one suspectduring a search for a Taliban leader in the Sayyidabad district of Wardak province. The sought-after Taliban leader is suspected of being directly involved in multiple ambush-style attacks on coalition force convoys throughout the district.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban commander in the Gereshk district of Helmand province. The Taliban commander, Abdul Bari, who operated across southwest Afghanistan, is suspected of coordinating delivery of heavy machine guns and IED-making components to insurgents across central Helmand province.

-- Afghan Special Police members recovered IED-making materials and heavy weapons, including three mortars, in a coalition-supported operation in the Nerkh district of Wardak province.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012

 

An AV-8B Harrier II Plus with Marine Attack Squadron 211, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), awaits its next mission on the tarmac at Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, Sept. 18, 2012. The aircraft provides air support to the ground units throughout Helmand and Nimroz provinces. Despite a roller coaster week for the squadron, VMA-211 remains fully operational and continues to provide support to ground troops throughout Regional Command Southwest’s area of operations.
Date Photo Taken- 9-18-2012
Unit: Marine Attack Squadron 211
Photo ByLine- Cpl. Timothy Lenzo
Photo VRIN- 120918-M-PC317-325.jpg
Photo Size- 994 KB

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Coalition, Afghan Troops Arrest 2 Taliban Leaders
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 26, 2012 - A combined coalition and Afghan security force arrested two Taliban leaders -- an attack commander and an improvised explosive device expert -- during an operation in the Ghazni district of Afghanistan's Ghazni province today, military officials reported.

The attack commander is suspected of having directed IED attacks against coalition and Afghan security forces across the district, officials said, in addition to coordinating the construction of homemade bombs and providing training on their use and placement. He also is believed to be involved in suicide bomber training. The security force also detained three other suspected insurgents in the operation.

Also today, an Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader in Ghazni province's Wali Muhammad Shahid Khugyani district. He is believed to have coordinated with insurgent groups to conduct direct-fire and IED attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained four other suspected insurgents.

In operations around Afghanistan yesterday:

-- A precision airstrike killed Malang, a Taliban leader, in the Sayyidabad district of Afghanistan's Wardak province after a combined security force saw him engaged in insurgent activity and ensured that no civilians were in the area. Malang was directly involved in planning attacks using improvised explosive devices against Afghan and coalition forces, as well coordinating the movement of insurgent fighters throughout the region. A post-strike assessment determined no civilians were harmed and no civilian property was damaged during the operation.

-- Provincial Response Company Wardak, mentored by coalition forces, reinforced another response company patrol that came under enemy fire in Wardak province's Maidan Shahr district. The combined force defeated the attack, killing seven insurgents. Responding to a request for a quick-reaction force, the combined element reached the unit in contact and was itself engaged by small arms and rocket propelled grenade fire from insurgents before fighting off the attack. Coalition officials said the rapid and effective response from PRC Wardak demonstrates their increased capability and their dedication to supporting their fellow Afghans in arms.

-- A combined U.S. Army Special Forces and Afghan National Army force killed an insurgent after being attacked at a local bazaar and at a combined outpost in Wardak province's Bahadur village. After eight to 10 insurgents opened fire with small arms and rocket propelled grenades, the combined force returned fire, secured the bazaar and village, and killed the insurgent at his fighting position. No civilians or Afghan forces were injured or killed during the engagement.

In a Sept. 24 operation, a combined security force arrested a Haqqani network IED attack leader in Khost province's Khost district. Officials said he is suspected of coordinating and planning IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the region and was directly involved in acquiring and distributing a large amount of explosives and weapons, as well as providing training on the use of homemade bombs. He also is believed to have been trying to infiltrate Afghan security forces. The security force also seized firearms and heavy weapons ammunition.

In other news, an orphaned Afghan boy escaped from insurgents who were trying to use him as a suicide bomber and fled to the Afghan National Police in Helmand province's Nawa district Sept. 22.

The boy told Afghan police that insurgents had given him money to influence him to wear a suicide vest and detonate it near coalition or Afghan security personnel. He refused, and now is receiving care and support from the police.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN SEPTEMBER 24, 2012

Photo: U.S. Department of Defense.

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Kills 2 Insurgents, Seizes HeroinCompiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force killed two insurgents and seized several pounds of heroin during an operation in search of a Taliban leader in the Zharay district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

As the security force approached the Taliban leader's suspected location, an armed group of insurgents displayed hostile intent toward the Afghan and coalition troops, officials said. The security force identified the lethal threat and engaged, killing two insurgents.

The security force also detained four suspected insurgents and seized a firearm as a result of the operation, officials said.

Officials said no civilians were harmed during the operation.

In other operations today:

-- An Afghan-led, coalition-supported force detained some suspects during an operation to arrest a Taliban leader in the Zharay district of Kandahar province. The Taliban leader is suspected of being a specialist in the use of improvised explosive devices and is linked to IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- An Afghan-led, coalition-supported force detained some suspects and seized firearms and ammunition during an operation to arrest a Haqqani leader in the Khost district of Khost province. The Haqqani leader is linked to IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the region.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force arrested a senior Taliban weapons dealer, killed an armed insurgent, detained two suspects and seized firearms in the Talah wa Barfak district of Baghlan province. The detained weapons dealer was a senior Taliban leader in the district's insurgent network and arranged the purchase and distribution of rocket-propelled grenades, heavy machine guns and explosives.

-- Afghan special police detained two suspects and recovered a machine gun, ammunition and two chest rigs in the Narhin district of Baghlan province.

-- A combined force killed two armed insurgents, including the leader of a Taliban attack cell, during a precision airstrike in the Sayyidabad district of Wardak province.

-- An Afghan-led, coalition-supported force arrested a Taliban IED expert and four other suspects in the Panjwai district of Kandahar province.

-- In the same district, a combined force detained a suspect during an operation to arrest a Taliban leader.

-- Afghan Special Police and coalition forces seized IED-making materials, a motorcycle intended for use in a suicide IED attack, a machine gun, grenades and ammunition in the Shinkai district of Zabul province.

-- A combined force detained four suspects and seized several firearms and IED-making components during a search for a senior Taliban leader in the Waghaz district of Ghazni province. The Taliban leader is believed to be responsible for IED attacks and suicide operations throughout the Waghaz district, as well as commanding dozens of insurgent fighters.

In Sept. 22 operations:

-- Recruits under supervision of Afghan Local Police and coalition forces killed a number of enemy insurgents in Shaghowlay village, located in the Qara Bagh district. The police recruits and coalition forces were fired upon while conducting a patrol through the village. After repelling the attack, the Afghan police met with a local religious leader, who indicated the Taliban had been using a local mosque as a staging area for attacks. Upon inspection, the police found two rocket-propelled grenades and a motorcycle near the mosque. An additional search yielded two assault rifles, a machine gun, two grenades and loose ammunition. There were no civilian causalities during the engagement.

-- Afghan Special Police and coalition forces recovered weapons and narcotics in separate operations in Nimroz province. The first operation, in the Zaranji district, resulted in the seizure of 1,250 pounds of dry opium and ammonium nitrate, a banned fertilizer insurgents use to make explosives. In the Chakhansr district, an Afghan-led force recovered 1,234 pounds of opium, 230 pounds of heroin and a machine gun. The combined force also detained two people suspected of moving weapons and narcotics across southern Afghanistan. All of the drugs were destroyed.

-- In the Gardez district of Paktia province, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network weapons dealer, detained other suspects, seized weapons accessories and confiscated counterfeit IDs.

-- A combined force in the Gelan district of Ghazni province arrested a Taliban intelligence facilitator suspected of gathering information on Afghan and coalition operations and providing it to Taliban leaders for planning and conducting insurgent attacks.

ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR AUGUST 30, 2012

Photo:  U.S. Gen. Allen Visits Shop In Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. DOD.
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Helicopter Crash Kills 2 ISAF Members in Afghanistan

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Aug. 30, 2012 - Two International Security Assistance Force service members died following a helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan today, military officials reported.

The cause of the crash is under investigation, officials said.

According to operational reporting, there was no enemy activity in the area at the time of the crash. It is ISAF policy to defer casualty identification procedures to the relevant national authorities.

In operations today around Afghanistan:

-- An Afghan and coalition security force detained two suspected insurgents during an operation to arrest a Taliban insurgent in the Hisarak district of Nangarhar province.

-- A combined force detained several suspects during a search for a Taliban leader in the Nad-e Ali district of Helmand province. The sought-after Taliban leader organizes insurgent operations against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the district.

-- In the Panjwai district of Kandahar province, an Afghan-led, coalition-supported force detained numerous suspects and seized multiple weapons during an operation to arrest a Taliban explosives supplier.

-- Also in the Panjwai district, a combined force detained several suspects during a search for a Taliban facilitator who provides improvised explosive devices and weapons to insurgents.

-- A combined force detained several suspects during a search for a Taliban leader in the Andar district of Ghazni province. The sought-after Taliban leader directs IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN

Photo:  F-15E refueling over Afghanistan.   Credit:  U.S. Air Force.
FROM:  AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE
Combined Force Detains Haqqani Leader
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases
WASHINGTON, July 9, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force detained a Haqqani network leader in the Terayzai district of Afghanistan's Khost province today, military officials reported.
The detained Haqqani leader specializes in high-profile attacks and reported directly to senior Haqqani leaders, officials said.
At the time of his arrest, officials said, the Haqqani leader was equipping his followers with military uniforms for a planned attack on an Afghan government facility. The security force also detained several suspected insurgents and seized multiple firearms during the operation, officials said.

In other Afghanistan news today:
-- A combined force detained a Taliban leader and also detained multiple suspects and seized bomb-making materials in the Imam Sahib district of Kunduz province. The insurgent leader coordinated Taliban attacks throughout northern Kunduz province, specializing in the use of improvised explosive device attacks and the recruitment and training of suicide attackers.

-- A combined force detained a Taliban explosives expert and two other suspects in the Panjwai district of Kandahar province. The detained insurgent acquired, constructed, and emplaced IEDs for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.
-- In the Musa Qalah district of Helmand province, a combined force detained multiple suspects and seized explosives and weapons during a search for a senior Taliban leader. The sought-after Taliban leader is responsible for planning and executing IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force called in an airstrike that killed an insurgent during a search for a senior Taliban leader in the Maidan Shahr district of Wardak province. The security force confirmed the airstrike had not injured any civilians.
-- A combined force found and cleared an IED in Ghazni province's Gelan district.
-- A combined force detained an insurgent in the Khost district of Khost province.
-- In Khost province's Terezayi district, a combined force found and cleared an IED.
-- A combined force found and cleared an IED in Laghman province's Mehtar Lam district.
-- In Logar province's Muhammad Aghah district, a combined force found and cleared an IED.

-- In Nangarhar province, a combined force found and cleared two IEDs in the Shinwar district and one in the Surkh Rod district.
-- In Nangarhar province's Shinwar district, a combined force detained an insurgent.
In operations yesterday:
-- Coalition forces detained numerous suspects and seized about 3,500 pounds of opium and 17 pounds of heroin in the Garm Ser district of Helmand province.
-- A combined force detained several suspects during a search for a senior Taliban recruiter in the Now Zad district of Helmand province. The insurgent recruiter serves as a Taliban leader in the Washer district and operates with other Taliban leaders.
-- A combined force detained a suspect during a search for a Taliban leader in the Rashidan district of Ghazni province. The sought-after Taliban leader controls more than 50 insurgents and has directed attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.
In July 7 operations:

-- A combined force seized and destroyed more than 3,300 pounds of opium and hashish and detained numerous suspected drug traffickers in the Registan district of Kandahar province.

-- A combined force detained several suspects during a search for an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader in the Kunduz district of Kunduz province. The IMU leader is an explosives expert who specializes in making IEDs and other devices for use in suicide and other types of attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.
-- A combined force detained several suspects during a search for a Taliban explosives specialist in the Zharay district of Kandahar province.
-- In the Gelan district of Ghazni province, a combined force detained an insurgent, found a cache contained small-arms ammunition, grenades and other IED-making materials, and cleared an IED.

-- In Ghazni province's Ghazni district, a combined force found and cleared an IED.
-- A combined force detained an insurgent and seized a cache containing small-arms ammunition, military items and IED-making materials in Khost province's Khost district.
-- A combined force found and cleared an IED in the Gurbuz district of Khost province.
-- In Khost province's Sabari district, a combined force detained seven insurgents.
-- A combined force found and cleared an IED in Laghman province's Mehtar Lam district.

-- In Paktika province's Sar Rowzah district, a combined force found and cleared an IED.
-- A combined force found and cleared an IED in Paktia province's Shwak district.