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 FEBRUARY 25, 2013

Photo Credit:  U.S. Navy.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE, ISAF NEWS
Combined Force Arrests Taliban Leader in Nangarhar Province
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Feb. 25, 2013 - A combined coalition and Afghan security force arrested a senior Taliban leader in the Khugyani district of Afghanistan's Nangarhar province yesterday, military officials reported.

The Taliban leader is believed to be responsible for coordinating and directing insurgents and of having maintained direct operational control of suicide bombers prepared to carry out attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, officials said. The security force also arrested three other suspected insurgents.

In other Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- In Kandahar province's Arghandab district, a combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator believed to be responsible for the acquisition and distribution of lethal aid for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and to be heavily involved in the finances of an insurgent network in the district. The security force also arrested another suspected insurgent.

-- A combined force in Logar province's Pul-e Alam district arrested three insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader believed to be responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also has been linked to kidnapping Afghans for ransom and establishing illegal checkpoints, officials said.

-- In Ghazni province's Andar district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader believed to be responsible for procuring and distributing automatic weapons and roadside bombs to insurgents and to have personally planned and executed attacks. The security force also arrested another suspected insurgent.

 

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR FEBRUARY 20, 2013

U.S. Army 1st Lt. Ryan Schulte, left, and U.S. Navy Lt. j.g. Matthew Stroup, right, arrive at the Directorate of Information and Culture building to teach photojournalism to students in Farah City, Afghanistan, Feb. 10, 2013. Schulte, a platoon leader, and Stroup, a public affairs officer, are assigned to the Provincial Reconstruction Team Farah. The session is part of a 15-day media training course offered to both male and female journalists. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Petty Officer Josh Ives

FROM U.S DEFENSE DEPARTMENT
Afghan, Coalition Forces Kill Insurgents in Logar ProvinceFrom an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Feb. 20, 2013 – A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed three insurgents and detained one other during an operation in search of a Taliban leader in the Charkh district of Afghanistan’s Logar province today, military officials reported.

As the security force approached the Taliban leader’s suspected location, insurgents maneuvered toward the Afghan and coalition troops. After positively identifying the lethal threat, the security force engaged the insurgents, killing three.

The Taliban leader is believed to be responsible for distributing weapons to insurgent forces and for planning and executing attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

The security force also seized a rocket-propelled grenade launcher, RPG rounds, assault rifles and a machine gun in the operation.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force in the city of Kandahar in Kandahar province arrested a Haqqani network facilitator who managed supply routes from the city to other provinces. He also is believed to have been instrumental in the acquisition and distribution of lethal aid to Haqqani fighters for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Khost province’s Terayzai district, a combined force arrested three insurgents during a search for a Haqqani network leader believed to responsible for improvised explosive device attacks. The security force also seized an assault rifle and two bolt-action rifles.

In operations yesterday:

-- A precision strike in Helmand province’s Nahr-e Saraj district killed a Taliban leader and another insurgent. The Taliban leader directed attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and coordinated the production and planting of IEDs.

-- In Ghazni province’s Andar district, a precision strike killed five insurgents after a combined security force observed them engaging in nefarious activity.

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 FEBRUARY 13, 2013

Partoling Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Army.

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

KABUL, Afghanistan, Feb. 13, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition force killed a Taliban leader in the Khugyani district of Afghanistan's Nangarhar province today, military officials reported.

Mojib, also known as Mansoor, conducted direct-fire attacks against Afghan government officials and Afghan and coalition forces. He was directly associated with Taliban senior leadership operating in Khugyani district and procured rocket-propelled grenades to be used in an attack on a coalition aircraft, officials said.

The security force seized assault rifles with associated gear as well as several grenades and a pistol in the operation.

Also today, a combined force in Khost province's Terayzai district arrested a Haqqani network leader who is accused of conducting attacks and kidnappings.

The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized grenades, an assault rifle with associated ammunition, an Afghan army uniform and two Afghan army identification cards in the operation.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- Afghan and coalition forces called in a precision airstrike in Helmand province's Nad-e Ali district that killed a Taliban leader responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also helped insurgents obtain heavy weapons. A post-strike assessment determined no civilians were harmed and no property was damaged in the operation.

-- A combined force called in a precision strike that killed two insurgents in Kunar province's Ghaziabad district. A post-operation assessment determined no civilians were harmed and no civilian property was damaged in the operation.

-- In Kandahar province's Maiwand district, a combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator believed responsible for coordinating and conducting insurgent operations.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR FEBRUARY 8, 2013

U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Jeff Korzatkowski, foreground, briefs Provincial Reconstruction Team Farah troops on the mission plan before the arrival of U.S. Ambassador Hugo Llorens on Forward Operating Base Farah in Farah City, Afghanistan, Feb. 5, 2013. Korzatkowski, executive officer, is assigned to Provincial Reconstruction Team Farah. The mission was part of a two-day visit by U.S. Ambassador Hugo Llorens, assistant chief of mission at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, to meet with provincial Afghan officials, engage with the team's civil-military leaders and meet soldiers and sailors assigned to the team. U.S. Navy photo by Lt. j.g. Matthew Stroup

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Arrests Explosives Expert in Takhar Province
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, Feb. 8, 2013 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader during an operation in the Yangi Qal'ah district of Afghanistan's Takhar province today, military officials reported.

The arrested insurgent leader was an explosives expert assisting with the planning of an impending high profile attack, officials said. He also coordinated the construction and movement of improvised explosive devices in the province.

During the operation, the security force also detained one suspected insurgent, officials said.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force in Kandahar province's Panjwai district detained three insurgents while searching for a Taliban leader responsible for organizing IED operations against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Logar province's Baraki Barak district, a combined force detained five insurgents while searching for a Taliban leader who oversees insurgent fighters and attacks Afghan and coalition patrols.

Yesterday in Kunduz province's Chahar district, a precision strike killed Hamid Gul, a Taliban leader who conducted attacks against Afghan government officials and Afghan and coalition forces. He oversaw 25 insurgent fighters responsible for IED operations in the district.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR JANUARY 4, 2013



U.S. soldiers and Afghan border police hike from their landing zone to Observation Point 12 along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, Jan. 21, 2013. The soldiers are assigned to the 101st Airborne Division's 1st Brigade Combat Team. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jon Heinrich

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Afghan, Coalition Troops Arrest Taliban IED Facilitator
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Feb. 4, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban improvised explosive device facilitator in the Nad-e Ali district of Afghanistan's Helmand province today, military officials reported.

The facilitator is believed responsible for the procurement, construction and distribution of IEDs and other weapons to Taliban leaders operating in the district. He is alleged to have overseen the acquisition and delivery of heavy weapons to insurgents for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized firearms in the operation.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined force in Kandahar province's Maiwand district arrested a Taliban leader who is believed to have overseen nearly 30 Taliban fighters and is suspected of being responsible for coordinating complex attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Baghlan province's Baghlan-e Jadid district, a combined force detained two insurgents during a search for a senior Taliban leader believed to command 25 Taliban fighters and to oversee IED operations.

In Feb. 1 operations:

-- A combined force in Kunduz province's Khanabad district arrested a Taliban IED coordinator who is believed to have conducted attacks against Afghan government officials and Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also seized IED-making materials.

-- In Khost province's Khost district, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network IED expert accused of coordinating the acquisition and transfer of homemade explosives, weapons and IEDs for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent and seized assault rifles in the operation.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR JANUARY 17, 2013

U.S. troops assigned to Provincial Reconstruction Team Farah wait for a UH-60 Black Hawk medevac helicopter to land before moving a simulated casualty during medical evacuation training on Forward Operating Base Farah, Afghanistan, Jan. 9, 2013. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Petty Officer Josh Ives

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

KABUL, Afghanistan, Jan. 17, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader and detained several suspected insurgents in the Panjwai district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

The Taliban leader oversaw insurgents that attacked Afghan and coalition forces with improvised explosive devices and direct fire. He also facilitated the transfer and delivery of weapons and IEDs to insurgents, officials said, and was involved in the coordination of an assassination attempt.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined force in Kandahar's Daman district arrested a Taliban leader who planned and conducted attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and oversaw the acquisition of weapons and ammunition for insurgents. At the time of his arrest, he was involved in the transfer of rockets for use in an attack.

-- In Kandahar's Maiwand district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader responsible for coordinating attacks on Afghan and coalition forces, including acquisition of IEDs and weapons.

In a Jan. 15 operation in Kandahar's Maiwand district, a combined force detained three armed insurgents who had attacked Afghan civilians.

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 20, 2012

From:  U.S. Department Of Defense.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Arrests 15 Insurgents in Afghanistan
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Dec. 20, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested 15 insurgents in the Bati Kot district of Afghanistan's Nangarhar province during a search for a Taliban facilitator today, military officials reported.

Officials said the sought-after facilitator is responsible for manufacturing and emplacing improvised explosive devices throughout Nangarhar province.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined force killed the Taliban leader, Mahjur, along with one other insurgent in the Nari district of Kunar province. Mahjur was responsible for planning attacks against Afghanistan government officials and coalition forces. He also acquired and facilitated the movement of IED-making components, other weapons and ammunition used in attacks.

-- In the Alingar district of Laghman province, a combined force killed one insurgent and detained one suspect during a search for a Taliban leader. The sought-after Taliban leader is responsible for attacks against Afghan government officials and coalition forces.

Also, a Haqqani leader was arrested Dec. 17 in the Pul-e 'Alam district of Logar province. The arrested Haqqani leader purchased weapons and ammunition for insurgents and was directly involved in planning and coordinating attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 28, 2012

Photo Credit:  U.S. Army.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

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

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a local Haqqani leader in the Sabari district of Afghanistan's Khost province today, military officials reported.

The detained Haqqani leader was in charge of the acquisition and distribution of weapons and ammunition to insurgents operating throughout Khost province, officials said.

The security force also detained several suspected insurgents and seized a number of weapons and grenades.

In operations yesterday:
-- A combined force killed two insurgents and detained one suspect during a search for a senior Taliban leader in the Sar-e Pul district of Sar-e Pul province. The sought-after Taliban leader controls Taliban insurgents operating in Jowzjan and Sar-e Pul provinces, and is thought to be responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in both provinces.

In operations Nov. 25:
-- In Wardak province's Jaghatu district, a combined force killed the insurgent leader Zubayr, who'd supplied weapons to fighters operating throughout the district. One other insurgent was killed during the operation.

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 FOR OCTOBER 29, 2012

Photo Credit:  U.S. Navy.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Kills Attackers During Search for Taliban Leader
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Oct. 29, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed several insurgents during a security operation to arrest a Taliban leader in Afghanistan's Ghazni province today, military officials reported.

The security force came under small-arms fire from several insurgents as it approached the Taliban leader's suspected location. The security force returned fire, killing the insurgents.

The combined force also detained a suspected insurgent and seized a machine gun with a large quantity of ammunition, several assault-style rifles, a pistol and assorted ammunition.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force in Kandahar province arrested a Taliban leader believed to be responsible for high-profile attack planning, facilitating weapons for insurgents and leading a group of Taliban fighters.

-- In Logar province, a combined force detained several suspected insurgents while searching for a Haqqani network leader believed to coordinate attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force in Khost province detained a suspected insurgent during a search for a Haqqani network leader suspected of planning ambush attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces and helping to facilitate weapons for insurgents.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN, SEPTEMBER 27, 2012

Photo:  Afghanistan.  From:  CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Detains Insurgents, Seizes Narcotics
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 27, 2012 - A combined security force detained several suspected insurgents during an operation to arrest a Taliban facilitator in the Washer district of Helmand province today, military officials reported.

The facilitator is alleged to coordinate the movement of insurgent fighters and weapons, as well as coordinating attacks across northern Helmand province, officials said.

The security force also seized multiple assault rifles and several pounds of illegal narcotics, officials said.

Also today, an Afghan-led, coalition-supported force killed a number of insurgents and detained two suspects during a search for a Haqqani leader in the Sabari district of Khost province. The sought-after insurgent leader is linked to multiple rocket-propelled grenade attacks on Afghan and coalition security forces. The security force also seized several assault rifles and other military equipment.

In Sept. 26 operations:

An Afghan-led, coalition-supported force recovered a cache of weapons, improvised explosive devices and IED-making components in the Qalat district of Zabul province. The force found some pressure plate IEDs, 573 pounds of ammonium nitrate, 220 pounds of potassium chloride, 55 pounds of homemade explosive, 33 pounds of aluminum powder, RPGs, ammunition, and two Afghan National Security Forces uniforms.

In Sept. 23 operations:

-- Al-Qaida facilitator Abdul Rauf was killed along with two other insurgents during an airstrike in the Marawarah district of Kunar province. Abdul Rauf was a Pakistani al-Qaida facilitator who coordinated the movement of foreign fighters into Afghanistan. He also constructed IEDs for use in attacks against security forces. No civilians were harmed and no civilian structures were damaged during the operation.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN

Marines provide security after dismounting an amphibious assault vehicle while performing a direct action raid on an urban terrain facility during pre-deployment training on Fort Pickett, Va., Sept. 8, 2012. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Chris Stone.
　

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

KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 19, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested the senior Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader for Afghanistan's Kunduz province in the province's Qalah-ye Zal district today, military officials reported.

As the security force approached the IMU leader's location, he and another insurgent maneuvered from the compound and displayed hostile intent. The security force positively identified the insurgent threat and engaged. The insurgent was killed, and the IMU leader was arrested without injury. No civilians were harmed during the operation.

The detained senior insurgent leader is believed to have directed the terrorist organization's insurgent activity in Kunduz province, including the financing, manning and provision of weapons and equipment for attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. He also provided training and direction to insurgents, resulting in several attacks using improvised explosive devices.

The security force also detained four suspected insurgents as a result of this operation.

In other operations today:

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban weapons specialist and killed two armed insurgents in the Muqer district of Ghazni province. As the security force approached his location, two armed insurgents opened fire on the Afghan and coalition troops. The security force engaged the armed insurgents, killing them. No civilians were harmed in the exchange. Prior to his arrest, the Taliban weapons specialist planned and executed several attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the region using mortars and small-arms fire.

-- A combined force detained six suspects during a search for a Haqqani network weapons facilitator in the Gardez district of Paktia province. The sought-after Haqqani facilitator is believed to work with Haqqani and insurgent leaders throughout western Paktia province to acquire and distribute weapons for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- An Afghan-led, coalition-supported force detained two suspects during a search for a Taliban facilitator in the Kandahar district of Kandahar province. The Taliban facilitator is believed to acquire, transport and distribute lethal supplies for insurgent attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in Kandahar City.

-- A combined force detained two suspects in the Zharay district of Kandahar province. The security force also found and destroyed bomb-making components. No civilians were harmed during the operation.

In a Sept. 17 operation, one of the Haqqani network leaders behind an Aug. 7 attack on a coalition base in Logar province, was killed by a combined security force in Logar's Pul-e Alam district. As the security force approached his location, he maneuvered from the compound and opened fire. The security force returned fire, killing him. Hemat was suspected of having supplied suicide bombers with equipment for the Aug. 7 attack, which wounded several Afghan civilians but failed to cause any significant damage to the coalition base. The security force also seized firearms and safely destroyed some explosives.

ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR SEPTEMBER 10, 2012

Photo:  Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Marines. 
FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSECombined Force Kills Insurgents in Laghman ProvinceCompiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed several armed insurgents during an operation to arrest a Taliban attack commander in the Alisheng district of Afghanistan's Laghman province today, military officials reported.

The insurgents were killed by return fire after they fired on the security force as it cleared the Taliban commander's suspected compound and secured the area.

The security force detained several suspected insurgents in the operation.

Also today, a combined force in Ghazni province's Waghaz district detained several suspected insurgents during an operation to arrest a Taliban leader who is believed to be responsible for transporting and equipping foreign insurgents for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined security force in the Kandahar district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province arrested a Taliban attack coordinator who is suspected of planning and directing multiple attacks throughout central Kandahar and is believed to have also plotted several assassination attempts against Afghan officials. At the time of his arrest, officials said, he was believed to be planning an imminent suicide attack against Afghan security forces. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent in the operation.

-- A combined force in Helmand province's Now Zad district detained numerous suspected insurgents and more than 25 pounds of illegal narcotics during an operation to arrest a Taliban leader who is believed to be responsible for equipping insurgents with mortars and heavy weapons for attacks against Afghan and coalition security forces.

-- Afghan and coalition forces in Laghman province's Alisheng district killed numerous armed insurgents during a security operation to arrest a Taliban leader. During the operation, Afghan and coalition forces identified multiple insurgents armed with assault rifles and a heavy machine gun maneuvering near their position. After ensuring that no civilians were in the area, the security force engaged the armed insurgents with a precision airstrike. A post-strike assessment determined no civilian property was damaged and no civilians were harmed.

In Sept. 8 operations:

-- Afghan and coalition security forces detained a suspected suicide attack facilitator in Nangarhar province's Jalalabad district. At the time of his arrest, he was believed to be involved in planning an imminent suicide-bomb attack in the region.

-- In Helmand province's Nahr-e Saraj district, security combined force arrested a Taliban improvised explosive device cell leader who is suspected of directing attacks against Afghan and coalition convoys. In the weeks prior to his arrest, the Taliban IED cell leader is believed to have conducted an attack that wounded several coalition security force members.

-- A combined force found and destroyed a Taliban weapons cache and detained several suspected insurgents in Sar-e Pul province's Sar-e Pul district. The cache included assault rifles and grenades, explosives, ammunition and bomb components.

-- In the Kunduz district of Kunduz province, security combined force detained several suspected insurgents during an operation to arrest an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan facilitator suspected of providing money, ammunition and explosives to insurgents.

In other news, an Afghan special police unit and coalition forces recovered narcotics, weapons and explosives, including more than 500 pounds of heroin and 600 kilograms of opium, during a three-day operation that began Sept. 6 in Helmand province's Washir district.

During the operation, the combined force came under small-arms attack and killed several insurgents with return fire. Afterward, the combined force found pressure plate bombs and components, homemade explosives, rocket-propelled grenades, small arms and ammunition.

ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN AUGUST 22, 2012

Photo:  General Dempsey On Board Aircraft In Afghanistan.  Credit:  DOD.
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE



From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

　

KABUL, Afghanistan, Aug. 22, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader today in the Panjwai district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province, military officials reported.

　

The Taliban leader conducted attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and moved weapons and explosives to other Taliban fighters in the area. Prior to his arrest, officials said, the Taliban leader carried out an improvised explosive device attack against Afghan forces.

　

The security force also detained several suspected insurgents during the operation.

　

In other operations today:
-- In Kunduz province's Imam Sahib district, a combined force detained several suspected insurgents and seized weapons during a search for an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader who finances and directs attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

　

-- A combined force detained several suspected insurgents in Helmand province's Now Zad district during a search for a Taliban leader who is in charge of acquiring weapons for Taliban fighters in the province's Marjah and Washir districts.

　

-- In the Pul-e Alam district of Logar province, a combined security force detained several suspected insurgents during an operation to arrest a Haqqani network leader who facilitates construction of improvised explosive devices and oversees IED attacks.

　

In other news, Afghan and coalition officials announced today that the insurgent leader Mullah Dost Mohammad was one of several insurgents arrested Aug. 20 during an operation in the Tarin Kot district of Uruzgan province. Mohammad is a key member of an IED supply and facilitation network in the Deh Rafshan area of Tarin Kot, officials said. He also is responsible for IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN JULY 27, 2012

Photo Credit:  U.S. Navy.
FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Coalition Airstrike Kills 2 Insurgents

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, July 27, 2012 - A coalition airstrike killed two enemy fighters during a search for an al-Qaida-associated insurgent leader in the Gelan district of Afghanistan's Ghazni province today, military officials reported.

The insurgent leader is responsible for planning insurgent attacks throughout the province, officials said.

After the airstrike, the security force conducted a follow-on assessment of the area and seized several mortar rounds and explosive materials, officials said, noting no civilians had been injured during the operation.

In other operations today:

-- A combined force detained numerous suspects during a search for a Taliban leader in the Musa Qal'ah district of Helmand province. The sought-after insurgent leader provides supplies to enemy fighters throughout northern Helmand province, and conducts attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the district.

-- In the Khugyani district of Nangarhar province, a combined force detained two suspects during an operation to arrest a Taliban explosives expert. The explosives expert manufactures and supplies insurgents with improvised explosive devices used to attack Afghan and coalition forces throughout eastern Afghanistan.

In July 26 operations:

-- A coalition force discovered a drug cache containing 18,181 pounds of hashish seed and 193 pounds of processed hashish in the Deh Rawud district of Uruzgan province. The seeds and drugs were destroyed.

-- A combined force seized homemade explosives used for making IEDs in Ghazni province's Ghazni district.

-- In Ghazni province, a combined force found and cleared one IED in the Gelan district and another in the Qarah Bagh district.

-- In Khowst province, a combined force detained an insurgent while investigating a weapons cache in the Sabari district. The cache contained small arms and ammunition, a grenade, and spotting scopes.

-- A combined force detained two insurgents in Khowst province's Nadir Shah Kot district.

-- In Kunar province, a combined force killed an insurgent in the Nari district.

-- A combined force detained an insurgent in Logar province's Pul-E Alam district.

-- In Nangarhar province, a combined force found and cleared one IED in the Bati Kot district and another in the Nazyan district.

-- A combined force found and cleared an IED in Paktika province's Orgun district.

RECENT ACTIONS IN AFGHANISTAN

Photo Credit:  U.S. Department of Defense  
FROM:  AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE
Afghan-led Security Force Captures Insurgent Facilitator
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, May 24, 2012 - An Afghan-led, coalition-supported security force detained an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan facilitator and several other insurgents during an operation in the Argo district of Afghanistan's Badakhshan province today, military officials reported.

The facilitator was responsible for acquiring and transporting explosive materials and planning improvised explosive device attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the district, officials said.

In other operations today:
-- In the Shorabak district of Kandahar province, coalition forces discovered an IED cache containing 5,000 pounds of homemade explosives and several main charges. All of the materials were destroyed.

-- A combined force detained a Haqqani leader and called in an airstrike that killed several insurgents in the Jaji district of Paktiya province. The Haqqani leader coordinated roadside bombings and indirect-fire attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also provided weapons, including IEDs, to insurgents.

-- A combined force detained a Taliban facilitator and one other insurgent in the Baraki Barak district of Logar province. The facilitator supplied weapons, ammunition and equipment to insurgents for attacks against Afghan and coalition troops.

-- A combined force detained several suspects during a search for a Taliban leader in the Wali Muhammad Shahid Khugyani district of Ghazni province. The sought-after insurgent leader plans and conducts roadside bombings against Afghan and coalition forces along Highway 1.

In May 23 operations:
-- A combined force discovered a cache containing 12 IEDs, two mines and seven jugs filled with homemade explosives in the Zharay district of Kandahar province.

-- A combined force killed six insurgents during a firefight in the Pul-E Alam district of Logar province. Some small arms and a radio device were recovered from the insurgents.

-- A combined force detained eight insurgents in the Terezayi district of Khowst province.

-- A combined force detained four insurgents in the Sabari district of Khowst province after finding three IEDs and four loaded AK-47 rifles in their vehicle.

-- A combined force called in an airstrike that killed two insurgents, including Jamil Ur Rahman, a senior insurgent leader, during an operation in the Waygal district of Nuristan province. Rahman had provided leadership and coordinated insurgent activities across eastern Afghanistan.

-- A combined force discovered a weapons cache containing 50 pounds of homemade explosives, five 120 mm mortar rounds and some small-arms ammunition in the Mizan district of Zabul province.

-- In the Shindand district of Herat province, a combined force discovered a weapons cache containing seven cluster bombs,
12 82 mm mortar rounds, one 107 mm rocket and 10 rocket engine boosters. The cache was destroyed.

In May 21 operations:
-- In the Kajaki district of Helmand province, a combined force killed several insurgents and destroyed 3,102 pounds of poppy seed, 484 pounds of wet opium, 22 pounds of ammonium nitrate and drug production equipment.

RECENT SECURITY OPERATIONS IN AFGHANISTAN

FROM:  AMERICAN FORCES PRESS SERVICE

Afghan, Coalition Forces Capture Insurgent Leaders

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, April 24, 2012 - Afghan and coalition forces captured multiple insurgents in eastern Afghanistan today, including three who were leaders in the Taliban and Haqqani networks, military officials reported.

A combined Afghan and international force detained two of the insurgent leaders in Logar province's Pul-e 'Alam district. One is a Haqqani leader who directed roadside bombings and other attacks against Afghan and coalition security forces and provided weapons, ammunition, and explosives to insurgents in the area. The other was a Taliban leader who coordinated attacks against Afghan and coalition troops in the Baraki Barak district.

Also today in the Zurmat district of Paktiya province, a combined force captured a Taliban leader who organized suicide bombings and other attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the district. Serving as a Taliban judge, the man ordered beheadings and other punishments for Afghan civilians living in the area.

The security force detained several additional insurgents in both operations.

In other security operations in Afghanistan today:

-- A combined force detained a Taliban insurgent in Logar province's Baraki Barak district. The man is an explosives expert who coordinated roadside bombings against Afghan and coalition security forces throughout the district.

-- In the Dand district of Kandahar province, a combined security force detained multiple suspects during an operation to detain a Taliban leader who distributes weapons to insurgents for attacks against Afghan and coalition security forces.

-- A combined force detained multiple insurgents during an operation to detain a Taliban leader in the Sangin district of Helmand province. The leader plans and supervises roadside bombings and other attacks against Afghan and coalition security forces.

In operations yesterday:

-- In the Shinwar district of Nangarhar province, an Afghan provincial response team advised by coalition forces detained a Taliban leader and improvised explosive device expert who was responsible for transporting and emplacing IEDs throughout the province, as well as attacks against security forces. Several additional insurgents also were detained.

-- An Afghan provincial response team, working with Afghan security forces and coalition advisors, seized an insurgent weapons cache during an operation to disrupt insurgent weapons trafficking and secure transportation routes in Nangarhar province's Achin district. The cache, consisting of five recoilless rifles, eight rocket-propelled grenades, some small-arms ammunition and IED components, was destroyed on site.