NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR MARCH 4, 2013

Photo Credit:  U.S. Marine Corps.

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

KABUL, Afghanistan, March 4, 2013 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani leader during an operation in the Nadir Shah Kot district of Afghanistan's Khost province today, military officials reported.

The arrested insurgent is believed responsible for organizing and conducting improvised explosive device and mortar attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, officials said.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- In the Baraki Barak district of Logar province, a combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator and two other insurgents. The arrested Taliban facilitator is accused of procuring and distributing weapons for Taliban fighters in the district. He also is alleged to have directed IED and small-arms attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force arrested two insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader in the Sherzad district of Nangarhar province. The arrested Taliban leader is believed to be responsible for directing and participating in attacks on Afghan and coalition forces in the district. He also is accused of being involved with a network that has executed innocent Afghan citizens and actively seeks to recruit fighters to conduct attacks against coalition forces. He also is accused of extorting the residents of the district, using the money to fund illegal activities.

-- In the Kandahar district of Kandahar province, a combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator and one other insurgent. The Taliban facilitator is accused of coordinating the movement of supplies, weapons and IED-making materials for use against Afghan and coalition forces. He also is believed heavily involved in recruiting efforts ahead of the spring fighting season.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined force killed three insurgents and wounded one other in the Ghaziabad district of Kunar province.

-- In the Khanabad district of Kunduz province, a combined force killed one insurgent.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR JANUARY 15, 2013

Bala Boluk district elders from Farah province particpate in a shura at the Bala Boluk district center in Afghanistan's Farah province, Jan. 15, 2013. U.S. Navy photo.

 　
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMET OF DEFENSE
Afghan, Coalition Forces Arrest Taliban Facilitator
From an International Security Assistance Force News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Jan. 15, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban facilitator in the Khugyani district of Afghanistan's Nangarhar province today, military officials reported.

The facilitator enabled the distribution of weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices and suicide vests for use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also planned and acquired materials for suicide vehicle bombings.

The security force also detained four suspected insurgents and seized bomb-making materials, weapons and ammunition.

Also today, a combined force detained several suspected insurgents while searching for a Taliban leader in Wardak province's Nerkh district. The leader facilitates the movement of weapons and IED materials.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined force in Logar province's Baraki Barak district killed three insurgents and arrested a Taliban IED expert who oversaw a group of insurgents and was planning an attack against local police. The security force also detained four suspected insurgents, destroyed an explosives cache and seized weapons, IED components and ammunition.

-- In Kandahar province's Maiwand district, a combined force detained three suspected insurgents while searching for a Taliban leader who facilitates the movement of heavy weapons and IEDs for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A coalition force in Helmand province's Nahr-e Saraj district found and destroyed about 1,100 pounds of hashish.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR DECEMBER 26, 2012

Map:  Afgahnistan.  Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

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

WASHINGTON, Dec. 26, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader and detained one other suspected insurgent during an operation in the Now Zad district of Afghanistan's Helmand province today, military officials reported.

The arrested Taliban leader coordinated and executed direct-fire and improvised explosive device attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the province.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- In the Dzadran district of Paktiya province, a combined force arrested a local Haqqani leader who was responsible for planning attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the district. The arrested Haqqani leader commanded a number of insurgents who constructed, transported and emplaced IEDs. The security force also detained one other suspect.

In Dec. 25 operations:

-- An Afghan-led security force of more than 1,000 soldiers and police killed multiple insurgents and detained dozens of suspects at the conclusion of a five-day coalition-supported operation in the Baraki Barak district of Logar province. The operation was conducted by the Provincial Response Company Laghman, along with elements of the Afghan Local Police, the Afghan Uniformed Police, and the Afghan National Army. The security force also seized IED-making materials, suicide vests, weapons, ammunition, and some illicit drugs.

-- In the Panjwa'i district of Kandahar province, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who coordinated the distribution of weapons, ammunition and explosives for insurgents' use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained one other suspect.

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban leader and detained one other suspect in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province. The arrested Taliban leader coordinated direct-fire and IED attacks against Afghan government officials and Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban leader and a Taliban facilitator in the Rodat district of Nangarhar province. Both men were involved in planning the Dec. 2 attack on Jalalabad Airfield. They also organized and executed other attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and were involved in the acquisition of vehicle-borne IEDs. The security force also detained several other suspects and seized weapons and ammunition.

-- A combined force arrested a Haqqani leader, detained three other suspects, and seized more than 1,300 pounds of illicit drugs, weapons and ammunition in the Jaji district of Paktiya province. The Haqqani leader directed multiple attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also emplaced IEDs and organized the storage of insurgent weapons.

-- In the Andar district of Ghazni province, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who commanded more than a dozen fighters in the district and planned and executed ambushes and IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained three other suspects.

In Dec. 24 operations:

-- A combined force killed the Taliban leader, Qadir, and three other insurgents in the Baghlan-e Jadid district of Baghlan province. Qadir commanded a group of insurgents who conducted IED attacks in the district. He was also responsible for the movement of weapons, ammunition and bomb-making materials for insurgents in the province.

-- A combined force detained a Taliban leader in the Khanabad district of Kunduz province. The detained Taliban leader was involved in the planning of IED attacks on Afghanistan government officials and Afghan and coalition security forces. He was also a financial facilitator who coordinated funding to support the insurgency.

-- A combined force detained a Taliban leader and two other suspects in the Nad 'Ali district of Helmand province. The detained Taliban leader commanded a direct-action cell within the Nad 'Ali district. He also directed IED and other attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban leader and detained one other suspect in the Jalalabad district of Nangarhar province. The arrested Taliban leader was directly involved in planning attacks on the Afghan government.

-- A combined force detained four insurgents seized firearms during a search for a Haqqani leader in the Musa Khel district of Khost province. The sought-after Haqqani leader is responsible for distributing, planning and conducting attacks against Afghan and coalition forces within the district.

In Dec. 23 operations:

-- A combined force killed Taliban leader, Obaidullah, in the Sherzad district of Nangarhar province. Obaidullah, also known as Saifullah, directed the Oct. 12 indirect-fire attack on Forward Operating Base Fenty. He was also responsible for laundering money to fund Taliban attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and facilitated the movement of weapons, ammunition and bomb-making materials throughout Nangarhar province.

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban leader and seized weapons and ammunition in the Nad 'Ali district of Helmand province. The arrested Taliban leader was in contact with senior Taliban leaders in the province and coordinated and conducted IED and other attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In the Khanabad district of Kunduz province, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader and detained several other suspects. The arrested Taliban leader planned and executed IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also distributed IEDs to insurgents in the Khanabad and Kunduz districts.

-- In the Pul-e 'Alam district of Logar province, a combined force arrested a Haqqani leader who coordinated attacks in the district. One other suspect was also detained.

-- A combined force detained a suspected insurgent during a search for a Taliban leader in the Hisarak district of Nangarhar province. The detained suspect allegedly laundered money used to fund attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force arrested a Haqqani leader and detained one other suspect in the Khost district of Khost province. The arrested Haqqani leader planned, facilitated and executed attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the Pul-e 'Alam district of Logar province. He also emplaced IEDs and directed the movement of Haqqani fighters.

-- A combined force detained two suspects during a search for a Haqqani leader in the Sharan district of Paktika province.

In Dec. 22 operations:

-- The Kabul Crisis Response Unit discovered a weapons and explosives cache during a coalition-supported operation in the Surobi district of Kabul province. This was the first mission planned and led by the CRU. The cache included 772 pounds of homemade explosives, other weapons and ammunition.

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator and detained one other suspect in the Arghandab district of Kandahar province. The arrested Taliban facilitator procured and transported homemade explosives, IEDs and other weapons for use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force arrested a Haqqani leader, detained three other suspects and seized weapons and some Afghan National Security Force uniforms in the Jaji district of Paktiya province. The arrested Haqqani leader directed attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the province.

In Dec. 21 operations:

-- A Taliban leader was arrested in the Tarnek wa Jaldak district, Zabul province. The arrested Taliban leader transported and delivered weapons and ammunition to insurgents operating in the Tarnek wa Jaldak and Qalat districts.

-- A combined force detained three suspects during a search for a Taliban leader in the Tarnek wa Jaldak district of Zabul province. The sought-after Taliban leader is responsible for planning and conducting IED and other attacks against Afghan government leaders and Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In the Achin district of Nangahar province, an Afghan-led, coalition-supported force detained two suspects and discovered a drug cache containing 882 pounds of opium and drug-processing equipment. The security force destroyed the drugs and equipment.

-- In the Sabari district of Khost province, a combined force arrested a Haqqani facilitator who procured and transported weapons, homemade explosives and IEDs for insurgents. The security force also detained three other suspects and seized weapons.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR DECEMBER 3, 2012

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

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Arrests Taliban Leader in Balkh Province

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Dec. 3, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested the senior Taliban leader for eastern Chimtal district in Afghanistan's Balkh province today, military officials reported.

The leader planned and conducted numerous attacks, including improvised explosive device attacks, against Afghan and coalition forces, officials said. He also directly supported other senior Taliban leaders in the province.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- In the Shah Wali Kot district of Kandahar province, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who organized attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and facilitated the movement of Taliban fighters, weapons and ammunition. The security force also detained a suspected insurgent and seized several weapons.

-- A combined force in Helmand province's Nad-e Ali district arrested a Taliban leader who controlled insurgents and facilitated the movement of weapons. He also was responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents.

-- In Logar province's Pul-e Alam district, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network leader who controlled a group of insurgents and facilitated the acquisition and movement of weapons and ammunition.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force in Baghlan province's Pul-e Khumri district arrested a local Taliban leader who built and distributed IEDs and was responsible for transporting IED components to insurgents.

-- In Helmand province's Nad-e Ali district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who oversaw the emplacement of IEDs, conducted direct-fire attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and acquired and distributed IED materials to insurgents. The security force also detained a suspected insurgent.

-- A combined force in Logar province's Pul-e Alam district arrested a Haqqani network leader who led direct-fire attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and facilitated the transfer of weapons and ammunition to insurgents. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents.

-- In Khost province's Khost district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who planned and conducted indirect-fire attacks on Forward Operating Base Shan and directed IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

– A combined force in Ghazni province's Gelan district detained several suspected insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader who plans and coordinates attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and assists senior Taliban leaders in the province.

In Dec. 1 operations:

-- A local Taliban leader who planned and conducted IED attacks and helped senior Taliban leaders was arrested in the Sar-e Pul district of Sar-e Pul province.

-- An Afghan and coalition security force killed Taliban leader Juma Gul Akhund in Kandahar province's Panjwai district. Akhund oversaw IED operations in three Kandahar districts, and he organized the movement of weapons and IEDs throughout the province.

-- In Baghlan province's Pul-e Khumri district, a combined force killed local Taliban leader Hanif and another insurgent. Hanif oversaw the movement of suicide bombers throughout the province, directly aided more-senior Taliban leaders.

-- A combined security force in Helmand province's Washer district arrested a local Taliban leader who planned and coordinated attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also stored and distributed weapons for insurgent fighters in the region. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents.

-- In Kandahar province's Panjwai district, a combined force arrested a local Taliban leader who carried out attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and oversaw the emplacement of IEDs. The security force also detained a suspected insurgent.

-- A combined force in Logar province's Pul-e Alam district arrested a Haqqani network facilitator who coordinated the movement of weapons and ammunition into the province and distributed them to insurgent fighters.

-- In Nangarhar province's Khugyani district, a combined force arrested two insurgents while searching for a Taliban facilitator. The security force also seized 500 pounds of narcotics, some Afghan army uniforms and several weapons.

-- A combined force in Paktia province's Lajah–Ahmad Khel district detained several suspected insurgents while searching for a Haqqani network leader who directs attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and is suspected of involvement in the kidnapping and execution of several Afghan soldiers.

In Nov. 30 operations:

-- In Sar-e Pul province's Sar-e Pul district, a combined force arrested two insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader who controls insurgents in Jowzjan and Sar-e Pul provinces and is responsible for attacking Afghan and coalition forces in both provinces.

-- A combined force killed Shukrullah, a senior Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader, in Faryab province's Almar district. Shukrullah coordinated a Oct. 26 suicide-bomber attack that killed 41 Afghans, and he trained insurgents and provided IED components to IMU and Taliban fighters.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 27, 2012

Photo:  Patrol In Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. DOD

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Detains 3 Insurgents in Kunduz Province
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 27, 2012 - An Afghan-led, coalition-supported security force detained three suspected insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader in the Archi district of Afghanistan's Kunduz province today, military officials reported.

Officials describe the wanted Taliban leader as an improvised explosive device facilitator who coordinates IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

Also today, a combined force operating in Kandahar province's Shah Wali Kot district arrested a Taliban facilitator suspected of being responsible for overseeing IED and mine emplacements. He is also suspected of training other Taliban insurgents to build and test IEDs. The combined force also detained three suspects and seized multiple weapons.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:
-- A local Taliban leader, Amirullah, was killed during an Afghan-coalition security operation in the Watahpur district of Kunar province. Amirullah was involved in the unsuccessful Nov. 12 suicide attack that targeted the anti-terrorism chief in Kunar province's Asadabad district. Amirullah was also involved in coordinating the movement of weapons, ammunition and various military supplies for insurgents in the province.

-- One insurgent was killed during an Afghan-coalition security operation in the Shahid-e-Hasas district of Uruzgan province. The combined force also destroyed two caches that contained materials used in the construction of IEDs.

RECENT NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN

Photo:  Weapons Destruction In Afghaistan.  Credit:  U.S. Army.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Arrests Taliban Bomb Expert
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases
\
WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban bomb expert in Afghanistan's Logar province today, military officials reported.

He allegedly has built and supplied improvised explosive devices to insurgents and is believed to have selected targets for IED attacks.

Also today, an Afghan-led security force, supported by coalition troops, detained two suspected insurgents during a search for a Taliban facilitator in Kandahar province. The Taliban facilitator directed IED operations, including the construction and emplacement of IEDs for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In operations yesterday:
—-- A combined force seized 2,778 pounds of hashish and recovered a cache of weapons, ammunition and communication equipment in Kandahar province. Three insurgents were killed and a suspected insurgent was detained during the operation.

-- Afghan and coalition forces in Wardak province arrested a Taliban leader who planned the transfer and delivery of ammunition and rockets to insurgents and directed the emplacement of IEDs. He also is suspected of being directly responsible for rocket, IED and small-arms attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Nangarhar province, security combined force arrested a Taliban leader suspected of facilitating attacks against coalition forces. The security force also detained four other suspected insurgents.

-- A combined force in Logar province arrested a Haqqani network weapons facilitator who managed and maintained control over weapons caches and was responsible for the movement and delivery of supplies and weapons to Haqqani fighters. The security force also seized firearms during the operation.

-- In Wardak province, a combined force arrested an insurgent IED attack leader.

-- A combined force in Ghazni province arrested three insurgents during a search for a Taliban operations advisor. The security force killed an insurgent who fired at them and seized a rifle with ammunition.

-- Also in Ghazni province, a combined force arrested an insurgent while searching for a Taliban IED attack leader.

-- In Khost province, security combined force arrested a Haqqani network IED and direct-fire attack leader who also is believed to facilitate the transfer and delivery of IEDs and assorted weapons into Afghanistan. The security force seized firearms and associated gear.

-- A combined force in Takhar province detained an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan weapons facilitator who is believed to have purchased rifles, machine guns, mortar systems, and fertilizer for building IEDs to conduct attacks on Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Kunduz province, a combined force detained four insurgents during a search for a Taliban operations leader.

-- A combined force in Helmand province arrested two Taliban facilitators believed to be orchestrating an impending high-profile attack. The security force also detained two other suspected insurgents.

In other recent operations:
-- A combined force in Helmand province arrested a Taliban leader Nov. 24. He is believed to have facilitated movement of weapons and ammunition and to have coordinated attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces. Several other suspected insurgents were detained in the operation.

-- Also in Helmand province, a combined force arrested a Taliban attack coordinator Nov. 23. He is suspected of being directly responsible for coordinating vehicle-bomb and suicide-bomber attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 21, 2012

Photo:  Harrier Jet In Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. DOD 

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Kills Several Insurgents

From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 21, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force killed several insurgents during a search for a high-ranking Taliban leader and weapons facilitator in Afghanistan's Logar province today, military officials reported.

As the security force approached the Taliban leader's location, multiple insurgents armed with rocket-propelled grenades and small arms attacked the force, officials said.

The security force returned fire, killing several insurgents and defeating the attack. The security force also detained one suspect and seized several RPGs and a large quantity of assault rifles as a result of the operation.

In other Afghanistan operations today:
-- A combined force arrested five insurgents during a search for a Taliban weapons and lethal aid facilitator in Nimroz province.

-- In Khost province, a combined force arrested a Haqqani leader and weapons supplier, detained three other suspects and seized improvised explosive device-making materials, RPG equipment, ammunition, and firearms. The detained Haqqani leader is believed to be responsible for conducting convoy and IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In operations yesterday:
-- A combined force killed Taliban leader Saifullah in Ghazni province. Saifullah, also known as Allah Dad, was responsible for ensuring freedom of movement for Taliban fighters to gather intelligence and conduct indirect-fire and IED attacks against Afghan and coalition personnel. Prior to his death, Saifullah was involved in an IED attack against Afghan National Security Forces.

In Nov. 19 operations:
-- In Kandahar province, a combined force killed several insurgents, detained one suspect and seized weapons, ammunition and equipment including several AK-47 rifles.

-- A combined force seized 660 pounds of wet opium and detained one insurgent in Daykundi province.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 20, 2012

Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Army Photo.

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. 20, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban weapons facilitator in Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

The arrested facilitator is alleged to have supplied weapons, ammunition and improvised explosive devices to insurgents throughout Kandahar province, officials said.

The security force also seized an assault rifle and assorted ammunition during the operation.

In other Afghanistan operations today:
-- A combined force arrested a Haqqani senior leader in Khost province. The arrested leader is believed to have facilitated the movement of insurgents and directed IED emplacements for attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained one other suspected insurgent.

-- In Logar province, a combined force arrested a Haqqani leader and weapons facilitator. The arrested leader is alleged to have organized the acquisition and transfer of weapons to insurgents for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the province.

In operations yesterday:
-- A combined force killed a number of heavily-armed insurgents in Ghazni province. The security force observed the armed insurgents firing several heavy weapons toward the Khugyani District Center. The security force engaged the insurgents, killing them.

-- A combined force killed an insurgent in Nangarhar province.

And on Nov. 18, combined forces in Helmand province arrested a Taliban IED facilitator and seized 20 pounds of illegal narcotics. The arrested facilitator is believed responsible for the storage and shipment of homemade explosives and IED-making materials from across the Afghan border into central Helmand.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVERMBER 19, 2012

U.S. Marine Corps Staff Sgt. Travis M. Barnes provides close-air support over Afghanistan's Helmand province, Nov. 8, 2012. Barnes is assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Keonaona C. Paulo

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

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

WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban suicide attack operative in Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

The arrested insurgent is suspected of planning and executing suicide attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout Kandahar province, officials said.

The security force also detained a number of suspected insurgents as a result of the operation.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator and detained two suspects in Helmand province. The arrested insurgent is believed to have organized the acquisition and transportation of mass shipments of homemade explosives and improvised explosive device-making materials to insurgents throughout Kandahar and Helmand provinces.

-- In Logar province, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader. The arrested leader is alleged to have performed high-profile attack planning, conducted indirect-fire attacks against Forward Operating Base Shank and carried out IED attacks on Afghan security patrols throughout southern Logar province.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force arrested two Taliban weapons and explosives facilitators, detained one other suspected insurgent and seized IED-making materials in Kandahar province. The first detained Taliban facilitator is an IED expert who is believed responsible for the acquisition, construction and emplacement of IEDs for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the province. The second detainee is a weapons trafficker alleged to have coordinated transport of weapons and IED components to Taliban insurgents in Helmand and Kandahar provinces.

-- A combined force arrested five insurgents and seized 20 pounds of illegal narcotics during a search for a Taliban lethal aid facilitator in Helmand province.

In Nov. 17 operations:

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban leader and detained one other suspect in Kandahar province. The arrested leader is believed to have coordinated the movement and storage of machine guns, weapons, and ammunition to support the Taliban insurgency.

In Nov. 16 operations:

-- Afghan commandos and coalition forces discovered a weapons and drug cache which included AK-47 rifles, rocket-propelled grenade launchers and nearly 88 pounds of heroin in Helmand province.

-- Afghan National Army Special Forces and coalition forces discovered 15 emplaced IEDs and two caches in Kandahar province. The caches consisted of IED-making materials, one AK-47 magazine, some nine-volt batteries, and 500 Pakistani Rupees. The IEDs and both caches were destroyed.

-- Afghan Provincial Response Company Ghazni and coalition forces detained one suspected insurgent and seized a cache of weapons, homemade explosives and IED-making materials in Ghazni province. All discovered items were destroyed on site.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 15, 2012

Photo:  Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. DOD

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Arrests Taliban Bomb Facilitator
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 15, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force in Afghanistan's Kandahar province today arrested a Taliban leader suspected of distributing bomb components to insurgents and facilitating ambushes and attacks, military officials reported.

The security force also detained several other suspected insurgents, officials said.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force in Nangarhar province arrested a Taliban weapons, ammunition and suicide-attack facilitator suspected of resourcing and delivering lethal aid to insurgents. The security force also detained several other suspected insurgents and seized grenades and firearms.

-- Afghan and coalition forces killed two insurgents engaged in threatening activity in Ghazni province.

-- In Farah province, an Afghan provincial response company, enabled by coalition forces, detained several suspected insurgents and seized and destroyed more than 100 pounds of opium, two assault rifles, ammunition and rocket-propelled grenades.

In operations yesterday:

-- Afghan and coalition forces in Helmand province arrested a Taliban explosives expert believed to have acquired, built and distributed dozens of improvised explosive devices to insurgents. The security force also detained several other suspected insurgents.

-- A combined force, acting on a tip, found and removed eight IEDs in Kandahar province.

-- In Kandahar province, combined forces seized and destroyed two opium presses and chemicals and equipment used in making explosives.

SAUDI CITIZEN SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR ATTEMPTING TO USE A WEAPON OF MASS DESTRUCTION

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE

Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Saudi Student Sentenced to Life in Prison for Attempted Use of Weapon of Mass Destruction
Khalid Aldawsari Purchased Bomb Materials and Researched U.S. Targets

Khalid Ali-M Aldawsari, 22, a citizen of Saudi Arabia and resident of Lubbock, Texas, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Donald E. Walter in federal court in Amarillo, Texas, to life in prison.

Aldawsari was convicted on June 27, 2012, on an indictment charging one count of attempted use of a weapon of mass destruction in connection with his purchase of chemicals and equipment necessary to make an improvised explosive device (IED) and his research of potential U.S. targets, including persons and infrastructure. He was lawfully admitted into the United States in 2008 on a student visa and was enrolled at South Plains College near Lubbock.

Today’s announcement was made by Sarah R. Saldaña , U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas; Lisa Monaco, Assistant Attorney General for National Security; and Diego G. Rodriguez, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Dallas Field Division.

According to court documents and evidence presented during trial, at the time of his arrest last year, Aldawsari had been researching online how to construct an IED using several chemicals as ingredients. He had also acquired or taken a substantial step toward acquiring most of the ingredients and equipment necessary to construct an IED and he had conducted online research of several potential U.S. targets. In addition, he had allegedly described his desire for violent jihad and martyrdom in blog postings and a personal journal.

"This case, in which private citizens paid attention to details and notified authorities of their suspicions, serves as a reminder to all private citizens that we must always be observant and vigilant, as there are some who intend to cause great harm," said U.S. Attorney Saldaña. "Khalid Aldawsari, acting as a lone wolf, may well have gone undetected were it not for the keen observations of private citizens. We owe them, and all the hundreds of hard-working members of our law enforcement community, our deepest gratitude."

"Khalid Aldawsari came to this country intent on carrying out an attack. He then began purchasing ingredients to construct a bomb and was actively researching potential targets in America. Thanks to the hard work of many agents, analysts and prosecutors, his plot was thwarted before anyone was harmed; he was convicted at trial and, today at sentencing, he was held accountable for his actions," said Assistant Attorney General Monaco.

"Today’s sentencing demonstrates our commitment to detecting, investigating and prosecuting individuals who seek to do harm to others in our country. Our success was the result of the cooperation of law enforcement and intelligence resources, particularly, the FBI’s North Texas Joint Terrorism Task Force, the Texas Tech Police Department, the Lubbock Police Department and the Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office," said FBI Special Agent in Charge Rodriguez. "The dedicated agents, officers, and analysts; the computer forensics team; and the linguists are all to be commended for their diligent work on this investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District for the successful prosecution of Mr. Aldawsari."

The government presented evidence that on Feb. 1, 2011, a chemical supplier reported to the FBI a suspicious attempted purchase of concentrated phenol by a man identifying himself as Khalid Aldawsari. Phenol is a toxic chemical with legitimate uses, but can also be used to make the explosive trinitrophenol, also known as T.N.P., or picric acid. Ingredients typically used with phenol to make picric acid, or T.N.P., are concentrated sulfuric and nitric acids.

Aldawsari attempted to have the phenol order shipped to a freight company so it could be held for him there, but the freight company told Aldawsari that the order had been returned to the supplier and called the police. Later, Aldawsari falsely told the supplier he was associated with a university and wanted the phenol for "off-campus, personal research." Frustrated by questions being asked over his phenol order, Aldawsari cancelled his order, placed an order with another company, and later emailed himself instructions for producing phenol. In December 2010, he had successfully purchased concentrated nitric and sulfuric acids.

Aldawsari used various email accounts in researching explosives and targets, and often sent emails to himself as part of this process. He emailed himself a recipe for picric acid, which was described in the email as a "military explosive" and also emailed himself instructions on how to convert a cell phone into a remote detonator and how to prepare a booby-trapped vehicle using household items. Aldawsari also purchased many other items, including a Hazmat suit, a soldering iron kit, glass beakers and flasks, a stun gun, clocks and a battery tester.

Excerpts from a journal found at Aldawsari’s residence indicated that he had been planning to commit a terrorist attack in the United States for years. One entry describes how Aldawsari sought and obtained a particular scholarship because it allowed him to come directly to the United States and helped him financially, which he said "will help tremendously in providing me with the support I need for Jihad." The entry continues: "And now, after mastering the English language, learning how to build explosives and continuous planning to target the infidel Americans, it is time for Jihad."

In another entry, Aldawsari wrote that he was near to reaching his goal and near to getting weapons to use against infidels and their helpers. He also listed a "synopsis of important steps" that included obtaining a forged U.S. birth certificate; renting a car; using different driver’s licenses for each car rented; putting bombs in cars and taking them to different places during rush hour; and leaving the city for a safe place.

Aldawsari conducted research on various targets and emailed himself information on these locations and people. One of the documents he sent himself, with the subject line listed as "Targets," contained the names and home addresses of three American citizens who had previously served in the U.S. military and had been stationed for a time at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq. In others, Aldawsari sent himself the names of 12 reservoir dams in Colorado and California and listed two categories of targets: hydroelectric dams and nuclear power plants. He also sent himself an email titled "Tyrant’s House," in which he listed the Dallas address for former President George W. Bush. Aldawsari also conducted research that indicated he considered using infant dolls to conceal explosives and the possible targeting of a nightclub with an explosive concealed in a backpack.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 13, 2012



Drug Bust In Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. DOD.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
 Combined Force Detains Insurgent, Seizes Firearms

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Nov. 13, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force detained an insurgent during a search for a Haqqani network senior leader in Afghanistan's Paktia province today, military officials reported.

The security force also seized firearms in the operation, officials said.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- An Afghan and coalition security force killed Taliban leader Mir Jan Lala in Helmand province. He was responsible for providing intelligence to Taliban senior leadership for planning attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- An Afghan-led security force, supported by coalition troops, arrested a Taliban leader who leads an improvised explosive device attack cell in Kandahar province and detained some other suspected insurgents in the operation.

-- A combined Afghan and coalition security force in Helmand province detained several suspected insurgents during a search for a Taliban weapons distributer.

-- In Paktia province, security combined force arrested a Haqqani network leader suspected of being responsible for transferring weapons and IEDs. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent and seized an assault-style rifle.

-- A combined force in Logar province arrested a Haqqani leader alleged to be responsible for facilitating weapons and directing attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained two other suspected insurgents and seized a rifle.

In Nov. 11 operations:
-- An International Security Assistance Force patrol seized and destroyed nearly 1,320 pounds of homemade explosives and a banned fertilizer used to make explosives, along with IED initiators and components, during a joint air and ground patrol in Zabul province. The patrol destroyed all cache items at the location.

-- A combined force in Kunduz province arrested a senior Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan facilitator suspected of having organized the purchase and storage of rifles, machine guns, ammunition, mortar systems and fertilizer used in making explosives. The security force also seized grenades and assault-style rifles with large quantities of ammunition.

-- In Ghazni province, security combined force arrested a Taliban leader suspected of having organized and directed attacks on Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force in Paktia province arrested a Haqqani network leader believed to have planned and organized the transfer and emplacement of IEDs. The security force also detained two other suspected insurgents and seized a stockpile of Afghan army uniforms, grenades, a rifle and associated gear.

-- In Logar province, a combined force arrested an insurgent during a search for a Taliban leader suspected of supplying Taliban fighters with IEDs and mortars.

-- Afghan and coalition forces in Helmand province seized and destroyed 5,048 pounds of dry opium, 44 pounds of brown heroin and more than 145 gallons of a chemical used in heroin manufacturing.

In Nov. 10 operations:
-- Afghan and coalition forces killed two heavily armed insurgents engaged in threatening activity in Paktia province.

-- A combined force arrested three insurgents during a search for a Taliban IED facilitator in Kandahar province.

-- In Helmand province, a combined force killed Zafran, a Taliban direct-action cell leader believed to be responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A Taliban IED facilitator and suicide-bomber operations coordinator in Kunduz province was arrested along with another suspected insurgent.

-- In Kandahar province, a combined force arrested three insurgents during a search for a Taliban IED facilitator.

-- A combined force in Helmand province arrested a Taliban leader believed to be involved in the illegal movement of explosives and IED materials across the Afghan border. The security force also detained a several other suspected insurgents.

-- A combined force detained two insurgents during a search for a Taliban operative who is believed to coordinate the movement of IEDs throughout Kunduz province.

-- In Kandahar province, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader believed to be responsible for coordinating suicide-bomber operations and high-profile attacks targeting Afghan and coalition troops. The security force also seized 6 pounds of heroin.

-- A combined force detained an insurgent and seized 2 pounds of opium during a search of a Taliban IED construction and attack facilitator in Nangarhar province.

In Nov. 9 operations:
-- A combined force in Jowzjan province arrested a senior leader who directed Taliban fighters. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent and seized grenades, an assault-style rifle, a handgun and ammunition.

-- Afghan and coalition forces seized and destroyed nearly 2,400 pounds of opium and 33 pounds of heroin in Helmand province after observing and following a pickup truck traveling along a known drug-smuggling route.

-- Afghan and coalition forces killed two armed insurgents engaged in threatening activity in Kunar province.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR OCTOBER 22, 2012

Photo Credit:  U.S. Navy.
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Arrests Insurgents, Seizes Afghan Uniforms

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Oct. 22, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province today, military officials reported.

The arrested insurgent leader is believed to be directly responsible for the coordination of weapons and equipment used in attacks on Afghan and coalition forces.

The security force also detained several suspected insurgents and seized two Afghan army uniforms.

Also today, a combined security force in Kandahar province arrested a Taliban improvised explosive device expert believed to be in charge of IED operations in the province's northern and eastern areas. The security force also detained a suspected insurgent.

In operations around Afghanistan yesterday:

-- Afghan and coalition forces killed a man engaging in insurgent activity in Kandahar province.

-- Afghan and coalition forces killed two men engaging in insurgent activity in Wardak province.

-- In Ghazni province, Afghan special police, enabled by coalition forces, found and destroyed about 200 pounds of explosives and IED components.

In Oct. 20 operations:

-- Afghan special police, enabled by coalition forces, rescued 16 prisoners from the Taliban in Helmand province. All of the prisoners were released after security forces assessed their health.

-- An Afghan and coalition force in Ghazni province killed Mohammad Haydar, also known as Hamzah, a Taliban leader who facilitated attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Helmand province, an Afghan and coalition force arrested several insurgents while searching for a Taliban leader who conducts direct attacks on Afghan and coalition forces and provides lethal support to the Taliban insurgency.

-- Afghan and coalition forces killed several men engaging in insurgent activity in Logar province.

-- An Afghan and coalition force arrested several insurgents in Kunduz province while searching for a Taliban leader suspected of being involved in planning and facilitating attacks on Afghan and coalition forces.

In Oct. 19 operations:

-- Afghan and coalition forces in Helmand province killed Taliban leader Ahmad Jan, who was considered an expert in building and planting IEDs.

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

-- A combined security force killed an armed insurgent who was preparing to attack Afghan and coalition forces in Kandahar province.

In Oct. 18 operations:

-- Afghan police and coalition forces provided medical aid to an elder who had been shot in Zabul province. After returning to the area, the police detained several people for questioning.

-- In Uruzgan province, Afghan special police, enabled by coalition forces, detained an insurgent, killed several enemy fighters and seized a cache of weapons, ammunition and narcotics. The combined force found and destroyed 132 pounds of narcotics, several hand grenades, weapons and several hundred rounds of ammunition.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR OCTOBER 9, 2012

Photo Credit:  U.S. Department Of Defense 

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Afghan-led Force Arrests Taliban Facilitator
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Oct. 9, 2012 - An Afghan-led security force, supported by coalition troops, arrested a Taliban facilitator and improvised explosive device producer in Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

The arrested facilitator is suspected of managing the construction of large quantities of IEDs, and organizing the transfer of the IEDs and other weapons to support the insurgency.

He also was believed to be directly involved in organizing and executing IED placement, targeting Afghan and coalition forces.

The security force detained several suspected insurgents and seized 2 pounds of illegal narcotics.

In other operations today around Afghanistan:

-- A combined security force in Paktika province arrested a Haqqani network member believed to be responsible for January and May suicide bombings in Paktika and to have direct ties to a recent suicide bombing in Khost province. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized firearms.

-- A combined security force in Paktia province arrested a Haqqani member believed to have developed and executed complex attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also facilitated the transport of weapons to support other insurgent attacks. The security force seized a fully configured remote-controlled IED, bulk explosives, IED components, grenades and fuses.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force killed a Taliban leader and two other insurgents in Kunar province. The Taliban leader, Abdullah, was accused of shooting down a CH-47 Chinook helicopter in Kunar on July 25, 2011. The combined force conducted a precision airstrike after identifying Abdullah engaging in insurgent activity with two other militants in an isolated area away from civilians.

-- A combined force in Kunar province killed Manzoor, a weapons facilitator and Taliban leader, and two other insurgents. The combined force conducted a precision airstrike after identifying Manzoor engaging in insurgent activity with two other militants in an isolated area away from civilians.

-- In Ghazni province, a combined force killed a Taliban leader and arrested another. As the Afghan and coalition troops tried to take Abdul Rahman into custody, the armed leaders attempted to fire upon them. The security force engaged, killing Abdul Rahman. Also known as Mola Kaka, he is alleged to have recruited suicide bombers for assassination attempts on Afghan Local Police leadership and also to have organized the safe passage of Taliban leadership. The Taliban leader who was arrested is believed to have conducted attacks against Afghan citizens and to have been behind an IED attack that targeted a coalition convoy. The security force also detained a several suspected insurgents and seized assault-style rifles.

In Oct. 7 operations:

-- A combined force killed a Taliban leader and another insurgent in Wardak province. The security force conducted a precision airstrike after identifying the Taliban leader, Izzatullah, and another militant engaging in insurgent activity in an isolated area away from civilians.

-- In Ghazni province, a combined force saw a man engaging in insurgent activity, and after ensuring no civilians were in the area, killed him with a precision airstrike.

In Oct. 6 operations:

-- A combined security force in Nangarhar province arrested a Taliban leader suspected of being a part of the Shirafat attack network operating in Nangarhar and to be associated with numerous kidnappings and murders. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized firearms.

-- An Afghan-led security force in the Gardez district of Paktia province, supported by coalition troops, arrested a senior Taliban leader suspected of maintaining working relationships with senior Haqqani network leaders. He also is believed to be responsible for planning and directing attacks on Afghan and coalition forces, smuggling weapons, and planting IEDs throughout Logar province's Pul-e Alam and Baraki Barak districts. In addition, he is alleged to have managed the storage and delivery of IEDs and assault rifles to Taliban insurgents for use against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained several suspected insurgents.

-- A combined force in Kunduz province's Qalah-ye Zal district detained several suspected insurgents during a search for a senior Taliban leader believed to be planning an attack targeting Afghan and coalition forces.

-- Afghan and coalition forces killed several insurgents in Kandahar province's Panjwai district with a precision airstrike after identifying the insurgents burying an IED and ensuring no civilians were in the area. No civilians were harmed and no civilian property was damaged.


-- In Ghazni province's Waghaz district, a combined security force killed an armed insurgent and arrested a senior Taliban leader believed to have attacked Afghan and coalition forces using IEDs, mortars and rockets. He also was believed to be in charge of the Ghazni's Taliban education system. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent and seized grenades, blasting caps and weapons accessories.

-- A combined force in Paktia province's Dzadran district detained several suspected insurgents during a search for a Haqqani network facilitator suspected of coordinating the acquisition of suicide vests and weapons to be used in attacks on Afghan and coalition forces.

-- After identifying militants engaging in insurgent activity in an isolated area in Paktia province's Dzadran district, Afghan and coalition forces killed them with a precision airstrike. No civilians were harmed, and no civilian property was damaged.

-- A combined security force in Nangarhar province's Achin district arrested a senior Taliban leader believed to provide lodging, weapons and intelligence knowledge to support the insurgency. The security force detained several suspected insurgents and seized a firearm and explosive material.

-- In Kunar province's Watahpur district, a combined security force killed two armed insurgents with a precision airstrike after identifying a group preparing to attack Afghan and coalition forces. No civilians were harmed, and no civilian property was damaged.

In Oct. 5 operations:

-- The Afghan special police crisis response unit, enabled by coalition forces, seized a large cache of weapons during a short-notice operation in Kabul province's Surobi district. The combined force recovered 85 mortar rounds, about two dozen recoilless rifle rounds and 20 rocket-propelled grenades.

-- A targeted raid by a coalition unit on a suspected insurgent compound in Helmand province's Nahr-e Saraj district yielded 1,600 pounds of materials used in making explosives. The coalition force retained a small portion of the materials for future exploitation and destroyed the rest. No civilians were harmed.

-- An Afghan-led operation rescued several Afghan civilians held hostage in a Taliban compound in Ghazni province's Nawah district. The insurgent captors fled the compound when they saw the Afghan and coalition forces approaching. The hostages were found in poor health, officials said, but they have received medical care and are recovering.

-- Using a precision airstrike, Afghan and coalition forces killed a Haqqani network leader and another insurgent while they were placing an IED for a future attack.

In Oct. 4 operations:

-- Afghan Local Police defended Marzak village in Paktika province's Sar Howzah district when insurgents attacked their checkpoint. Partnered with Afghan uniformed police, national army special forces and coalition special operations forces, the local police quickly responded to the attack, reportedly killing dozens of insurgents and forcing the rest to flee into the mountains. A few local police members taken captive by the insurgents during the attack were rescued. They received medical treatment and were in stable condition, officials said. No civilians were harmed in the engagement.

-- Afghan and coalition forces arrested a Taliban leader in Ghazni province, along with a Taliban facilitator and IED manufacturer and another insurgent.

-- Mullah Abdul Ghafar Akhund, a Taliban leader based in Kandahar province's Panjwai district, was killed during a security operation in the province's Zhari district. A security force conducted a precision airstrike after identifying Abdul and other militants engaging in insurgent activity in an isolated area away from civilians, killing Abdul and two other insurgents. He is believed to have organized numerous IED attacks and coordinated the movement of weapons and ammunition for use against Afghan and coalition forces. No civilians were harmed, and no property was damaged.

In other news, Afghan special police and coalition forces, enabled by the Afghan Interior Ministry's Special Mission Wing, recovered narcotics and weapons during operations throughout Helmand province from Sept. 22 to Oct. 6. The missions resulted in the recovery of about 1,760 pounds of hashish, 1,100 pounds of marijuana seeds, 420 pounds of poppy seeds, several rocket-propelled grenade warheads, a suicide bomber vest and about 20 weapons. The combined force also engaged and killed several insurgents during the two weeks of operations.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN, SEPTEMBER 28, 2012

Photo Credit:  U.S. Air Force.

FROM: U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT
Combined Force Kills Multiple Insurgents
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 28, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force killed multiple armed insurgents during an operation to arrest a senior Haqqani facilitator in the Gelan district of Ghazni province today, military officials reported.

As the security force approached the Haqqani facilitator's suspected location, armed insurgents attacked the Afghan and coalition troops with heavy machine gun fire, officials said. The coalition troops returned fire, killing several armed insurgents. No civilians were harmed in the exchange.

The sought-after Haqqani facilitator is believed to be directly involved in several attacks throughout the region, many involving improvised explosive devices, and suicide bombers, resulting in civilian casualties, officials said.

The security force also detained two suspects and seized multiple assault rifles, a heavy machine gun and several explosives, including rocket-propelled grenades, officials said. The weapons and explosives were destroyed.

In other operations today:

-- A combined force detained a number of suspects during an operation to arrest a Taliban leader in the Maiwand district of Kandahar province. The sought-after Taliban leader is suspected of facilitating the movement of weapons throughout the region and reported directly to senior Taliban leaders in order to coordinate insurgent attacks.

-- A combined force detained one suspect and seized several pounds of illegal narcotics during a search for a Taliban leader in the Washer district of Helmand province. The sought-after insurgent leader is alleged to serve as a link between senior Taliban leaders and local attack cells, directing insurgent activity throughout the district.

-- A combined force arrested one Haqqani network leader and detained two suspects in the Sharan district of Paktika province. The arrested Haqqani leader is suspected of being directly involved in the planning of insurgent attacks and acquiring weapons and explosives for Haqqani fighters.

-- An Afghan-led, coalition-supported force arrested a Haqqani explosives facilitator, detained one suspect and seized IED-making equipment in the Bak district of Khost province. The arrested facilitator is alleged to be directly involved in the acquisition and emplacement of improvised explosive devices and rockets for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force arrested a number of suspects and seized several firearms during a search for a senior Haqqani leader in the Sayyid Karam district of Paktiya province. The sought-after Haqqani leader is suspected of directing attacks and coordinating the acquisition of weapons and funding for insurgent activity.

-- A combined force detained a number of suspects and seized multiple firearms during a search for a Haqqani IED attack leader in the Sharan district of Paktika province. The sought-after Haqqani leader is believed to be directly involved in the acquisition and emplacement of IEDs for insurgent attacks.

In Sept. 27 operations:

-- An International Security Assistance Force patrol rescued three Afghans who were being held hostage by Taliban insurgents in the Panjwa'i district of Kandahar province. The ISAF unit, Task Force Arrowhead, observed a number of insurgents load three men, bound and blindfolded, onto a trailer towed by a tractor. The ISAF patrol pursued and stopped the tractor, at which point the insurgents attempted to flee. Task Force Arrowhead troops freed the hostages and detained three of their captors, who were later identified as Taliban members. ISAF learned the three captives had been held by the Taliban for up to six days. The freed men were released by ISAF to Panjwa'i district officials.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR SEPTEMBER 4, 2012

Photo Credit:  U.S. Marine Corps.
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Arrests Suspected Taliban Explosives Dealer
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Sept. 4, 2012 - An Afghan special operations unit, supported by coalition troops, arrested a suspected Taliban explosives dealer during an operation in the Zharay district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

The detained explosives dealer is believed to be responsible for
coordinating the purchase and transfer of explosives and other bomb-making equipment for Taliban insurgents throughout the region, officials said.

Prior to his arrest, the suspect had acquired several components for building homemade bombs, officials said.

The Afghan special operations unit also detained three other suspected insurgents and seized more than 40 pounds of illegal narcotics as a result of this operation.

In another Afghanistan operation today, a combined force arrested a suspected Taliban IED expert, detained several other suspects and seized military uniforms, firearms and explosives in the Khugyani district of Nangarhar province. The arrested IED expert is believed to be a leading figure in the movement and provision of explosives for attacks against coalition and Afghan security forces throughout eastern Nangarhar province.

Also today, Afghan and coalition forces confirmed the death of Shabeer, a Haqqani network leader, following a Sept. 2 precision airstrike in the Pul-e Alam district of Logar province. Shabeer was believed to have been coordinating a high-profile attack using vehicle-borne bombs and other weapons. A post-strike assessment determined no civilian property was damaged and no civilians were harmed.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force detained several suspects and seized Afghan army uniforms, an assault rifle and IED components during a search for a Haqqani leader in the Sayyid Karam district of Paktia province.

-- A combined force detained several suspects and seized a firearm during a search for a Taliban leader in the Ghazni district of Ghazni province.

-- A combined force killed two armed insurgents in Logar's Pul-e Alam district.

In Sept. 2 operations:

-- In the Reg-e Khan Neshin district of Helmand province, International Security Assistance Force troops found and destroyed 1,190 pounds of wet and dry opium and detained four people.

-- During a search for a Taliban leader in the Baraki Barak district of Logar province, a combined force killed multiple insurgents and seized an 82 mm recoilless rifle.

-- A coalition airstrike killed multiple armed insurgents during an operation in Logar's Pul-e Alam district.

Also on Sept. 2, Afghan and coalition forces confirmed the Aug. 30 arrest of a Taliban insurgent in the Hisarak district of Nangarhar province. The insurgent is accused of using his status as a member of the Afghan National Police to conduct a May attack that killed two coalition service members. Prior to his capture, officials said, he was attempting to join the Afghan army.

In Sept. 1 operations:

-- A combined force killed an insurgent, detained numerous suspects and destroyed an explosives and weapons cache during a search for a Haqqani leader in the Sayyid Karam district of Paktia province.

-- In the Wali Muhammad Shahid Khugyani district of Ghazni province, a combined force detained several suspects during a search for a Taliban leader.

-- A combined force detained numerous suspects during a search for a Taliban bomb maker in the Washer district of Helmand province.

ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN JULY 10, 2012

Photo:  Security Forces On Watch In Afghanistan.  From:  U.S. Air Force. 
FROM:  AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE
Combined Force Kills Several Insurgents
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases
WASHINGTON, July 10, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force killed several insurgents during a search for the leader of a Taliban attack cell in the Chimtal district of Afghanistan's Balkh province today, military officials reported.

During the operation, a group of insurgents attacked the combined force, officials said. The force returned fire, killing all of the attackers. As the force continued its mission, another armed individual approached and threatened the force, officials said. The armed insurgent was killed by the security force.
Officials said the operation also resulted in the detention of a suspected insurgent and the seizure of multiple weapons.

In operations yesterday:
-- A combined force in the Imam Sahib district of Kunduz province detained a Taliban military chief who specialized in planning and carrying out improvised explosive device and suicide attacks.
-- A coalition airstrike killed an insurgent in Ghazni province's Muqer district.
-- A combined force found and cleared an IED in Ghazni's Giro district.
-- Combined forces killed three insurgents in a firefight, killed four other insurgents during an airstrike, and detained a suspect during separate operations in Ghazni's Ab Band district.
-- A combined force detained an insurgent in Ghazni's Waghaz district.
-- A combined force found and cleared an IED in Ghazni's Qarah Bagh district.
-- In the Barak district of Logar province, a combined force found and cleared two IEDs.
-- A combined force found and cleared an IED in Nangarhar province's Pachir Wa Agam district.
-- In Nangarhar's Nazyan district, a combined force found and cleared an IED.
-- A combined force detained an insurgent in Wardak province's Sayyidabad district.
In a July 7 operation, a combined force detained two Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leaders and two other suspects in the Kunduz district of Kunduz province. The detained IMU leaders were directly involved in the construction of IEDs and their use in insurgent attacks. Both leaders are associated with senior IMU leadership and participated in high-profile suicide attack planning, including a failed attack in January, officials said.

ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN JULY 6, 2012

Photo:  Sandstorm In Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Navy.
FROM:  AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE
Combined Force Detains Several Suspected Insurgents
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, July 6, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force detained several suspected insurgents during a search for a Taliban improvised explosive device expert in the Ghorak district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

The expert constructs IEDs and supplies them to Taliban leaders throughout the region for use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, officials said.
In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- Officials confirmed that the Lashkar-e-Taiba insurgent leader Ammar was killed June 29 during an airstrike in the Watahpur district of Kunar province. Ammar had managed a network of insurgents and directed attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the province. The airstrike also killed the LeT leader, Khatab Shafiq, and several other insurgents. A follow-on assessment confirmed the airstrike had not injured any civilians and had not damaged any civilian property.

-- In the Terayzai district of Khost province, a combined force detained several suspected insurgents and seized one firearm and multiple grenades during a search for a Haqqani leader. The Haqqani leader plans and coordinates attacks against the Afghan government throughout the province.

-- A combined force detained two suspected insurgents during a search for a Taliban bomb maker in the Khugyani district of Nangarhar province. The Taliban bomb maker plans and coordinates attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the region.

-- A combined force found and cleared four IEDs in Ghazni province. Two IEDs were found in the province's Ghazni district, one in the Khwaia Omari district and one in the Gelan district.
-- A combined force detained one insurgent in Ghazni province's Andar district.
-- A combined force discovered a weapons cache in Ghazni province's Ab Band district. The cache contained items used to create IEDs.

-- A combined force killed one insurgent in Kunar province's Darah Ye Pech district.
-- A combined force found and cleared an IED in Logar province's Pul-E Alam district.
-- A combined force found and cleared four IEDs in Nangarhar province. Two IEDs were found in the province's La'L Pur district, one in the Chapahar district and one in the Achin district.
-- A combined force killed one insurgent in Paktika province's Orgun district.
-- A combined force discovered a weapons cache containing grenades and mortar rounds used to make IEDs in Wardak province's Maidan Shahr district.

-- A combined force killed two insurgents in Wardak province's Sayyidabad district. The insurgents were found with IED-making materials, small arms and ammunition.

EXPLOSIVES, DRUGS CONFISCATED IN AFGHANISTAN

Photo Credit:  Wikimedia
FROM:  AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE
Combined Force Detains Haqqani Facilitator
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, May 22, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force detained a Haqqani facilitator and several additional insurgents during an operation in the Bak district of Afghanistan's Khost province today, military officials reported.
The facilitator had supplied weapons, ammunition and improvised explosive devices to insurgents for attacks against Afghan and coalition troops throughout the district, officials said.

In other Afghanistan operations:
-- A combined force discovered a weapons cache containing 440 pounds of explosives, multiple pressure-plate detonation devices, and various improvised explosive device-making components in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province. The cache was destroyed.

-- A combined force discovered a cache containing about 1,500 pounds of explosives in the Musa Khel district of Khost province. Security forces destroyed the cache.
In May 18 operations:

-- A combined force discovered an IED-making facility containing 110 pounds of explosives, three anti-personnel mines, eight detonators, and one rocket-propelled grenade in the Kajaki district of Helmand province. The combined force also discovered a drug cache that contained 24 pounds of wet opium and 2,002 pounds of poppy seed. All of the narcotics, explosives and IED-making components were destroyed.