ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR APRIL 4, 2013



Afghan border policemen deploy a heavy machine gun while setting up a new checkpoint in the Spin Boldak district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province, March 25, 2013. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Shane Hamann

 
　
FROM: DPEARTMENT OF DEFENSED
Afghan, Coalition Troops Arrest Taliban Facilitator
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, April 4, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban facilitator in the Dand district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

The facilitator is believed to have arranged transportation of weapons and improvised explosive devices throughout the province for use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, officials said. He also allegedly has ordered executions and kidnappings of Afghan civilians working with government officials.

Also today, a combined force in Wardak province's Sayyidabad district detained several insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader who is believed to direct attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also is an expert in the construction and use of IEDs and has directed acquisition and distribution of weapons to insurgents.

In Jowzjan province's Shibirghan district yesterday, a combined force killed an insurgent during a search for a Taliban facilitator responsible for providing financial aid throughout multiple provinces, collecting taxes for the Taliban, overseeing a network of Taliban tax collectors and coordinating financial matters with other Taliban leaders. He also is involved in providing weapons for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR MARCH 26, 2013

 

An Afghan national army soldier observes his sector during a clearing operation near Camp Shorabak in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, March 16, 2013. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Ezekiel R. Kitandwe

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

KABUL, Afghanistan, March 26, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader and detained another insurgent in the Shah Wali Kot district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

The leader is accused of ordering assassinations of Afghan government officials, coordinating the movement of weapons and supplies for insurgent operations and leading attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

Also today, a combined force in Helmand province's Nad-e Ali district arrested a Taliban facilitator who is believed to be responsible for procuring weapons and distributing them to insurgents. The security force also detained several other insurgents.

In Kunduz province's Kunduz district yesterday, a combined force arrested an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader who is believed to lead a cell of insurgent fighters responsible for attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. Before his arrest, officials said, he was believed to be actively planning to assassinate an Afghan national security forces official.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR MARCH 25, 2013

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Officials Confirm Deaths of Taliban Leaders in Helmand

From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, March 25, 2013 - Afghan and coalition military officials today confirmed that two key Taliban leaders in Afghanistan's Helmand province were killed in recent operations.
Taliban leader Tamim was killed in a March 18 operation in the province's Nahr-e Saraj district, and Gul Ahmad Akhund was killed a day earlier in the Nad-e Ali district.

Tamim was responsible for planning and directing attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, facilitating weapons to fighters throughout Helmand, and serving as a vital link in the local Taliban's intelligence apparatus, officials said. He also served as a member in illegitimate Taliban judicial proceedings and actively recruited civilians to join insurgent cells.

Akhund had operational control over a cell of insurgent fighters directly responsible for numerous attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces, officials said. He was instrumental in acquiring and distributing weapons and ammunition to his fighters.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR MARCH 18, 2013

U.S. Army Spc. Austin M. Weyerman and fellow soldiers move into a village with a suspected weapons cache during Operation Southern Fist III in the district of Spin Boldak, Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, March 3, 2013. Weyermann and the other sodliers are assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division's Company B, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 4th Striker Brigade Combat Team, enabled Afghan border police and soldiers to search for weapons caches and eliminate infiltration routes. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Shane Hamann

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Arrests Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan Leader
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, March 18, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader in the Kunduz district of Afghanistan's Kunduz province today, military officials reported.

The leader is believed to have coordinated multiple attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, and has had a vital role in acquiring weapons for extremist fighters, officials said.

Also today, a combined force in Kandahar province's Panjwai district detained several insurgents while searching for a Taliban leader suspected of being the deputy commander of a cell of insurgent fighters involved in kidnappings, roadside bomb operations and direct-fire attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- An Afghan and coalition security force killed an insurgent in Helmand province's Nad-e Ali district after seeing him engaged in insurgent activity.

-- In Kandahar's Panjwai district, a combined force killed Taliban facilitator Abdul Satar and another insurgent. Satar was directly involved in obtaining bomb-making materials, weapons and supplies for enemy fighters and recruiting operatives. He also participated in attacks targeting Afghan local police.

-- Also in Kandahar's Panjwai district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader accused of being in charge of a large cell of insurgent fighters known for attacking Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained several other insurgents.

-- In Nangarhar province's Khugyani district, a combined force killed an armed insurgent after seeing him engaging in insurgent activity.

-- A combined force in Kandahar's Panjwai district arrested five insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader believed to be in charge of a large cell of insurgent fighters known for attacking Afghan and coalition forces.

In March 16 operations:

-- A combined force in Khost province's Musa Khel district arrested a Haqqani network leader who is accused of having operational control over several extremist cells and to have personally led attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also had a crucial role in obtaining weapons for militants.

-- In Helmand's Nad-e Ali district, a combined force killed a Taliban leader who directed and executed attacks and kidnappings targeting Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force detained a several insurgents in Logar province's Pul-e Alam district during a search for a Taliban facilitator believed to be responsible for coordinating and conducting attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and procuring and distributing weapons and ammunition to insurgents.

In a March 15 operation, a combined force in Jowzjan province detained an insurgent during a search for a pair of Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan high-profile attack coordinators who work together to orchestrate attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

In March 14 operations:

-- A combined force arrested an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan suicide attack coordinator during in Kunduz's Imam Sahib district. At the time of his arrest, he was actively planning an operation against Afghan forces, officials said.

-- A combined force in Nimroz province's Delaram district arrested a Taliban logistics leader who is believed to be in charge of the entire supply chain for an insurgent network operating in the central Helmand River valley area supervising the acquisition, transportation and distribution of weapons, IEDs and IED materials to several Taliban leaders. The security force also detained another insurgent.

-- In Logar's Pul-e Alam district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader who is believed to be heavily involved in insurgent operations throughout the district. He is accused of having engaged in a campaign of intimidation against Afghan authorities in the region and of obtaining weapons for extremists. The security force also detained another insurgent.

-- A combined force in Logar's Baraki Barak district arrested a Haqqani network IED expert suspected of having authority over a cell of fighters responsible for mortar and rocket attacks against Afghan and coalition fighters. The security force also detained two other insurgents.

-- In Logar's Pul-e Alam district, a combined force arrested a Haqqani facilitator accused of acquiring weapons, IEDs and other supplies for insurgent networks. He also is believed to have coordinated and participated in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also arrested several other insurgents.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN: TWO AMERICAN SERVICE MEMBERS KILLED, SEVERAL WOUNDED IN AFGHANISTAN

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN
Apparent Insider Attack Kills 2 Americans, 2 Afghans
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 11, 2013 - Two American service members were killed and 10 were wounded in an apparent "green-on-blue" incident in Afghanistan's Wardak province today.

An International Security Assistance Force release said the two were killed when an individual wearing an Afghan national security forces uniform turned a weapon on U.S. and Afghan forces. The attack killed at least two Afghan soldiers as well, U.S. officials said.

This is the third fatal insider attack this year. A British soldier was killed Jan. 7, and an American contract employee was killed March 8.

These attacks escalated last year, with 62 ISAF service members killed in 46 separate attacks. Insider attacks conducted in 2012 killed 35 Americans.

Today's attack occurred in the village of Jalrez. Reports indicate the attackers used a truck-mounted weapon to open fire on personnel leaving a training session. ISAF personnel killed the attacker, officials said.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR MARCH 7, 2013

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kody King engages enemy positions with an M2HB .50-caliber machine gun during Operation Bullseye in Kajaki in Afghanistan's Helmand province, Feb. 27, 2013. King, a machine gunner, is assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 7. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Kowshon Ye

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Makes Arrests After Firefight With Insurgents
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, March 7, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani network facilitator and detained a wounded insurgent after a firefight in the Sayyid Karam district of Afghanistan's Paktia province today, military officials reported.

The facilitator is believed to be responsible for housing Haqqani and Taliban militants during operations, and for coordinating the movement of weapons and ammunition for attacks on Afghan and coalition forces.

As the security force approached, insurgents opened fire. The security force returned fire, wounding one attacker.

The security force also seized an assault rifle, two ammunition magazines and a fragmentary grenade.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force in Nimroz province arrested a Taliban facilitator and detained four other insurgents in Khash Rod. The facilitator is believed to be a significant link for the Taliban's supply chain in the Helmand River Valley. He also is accused of supervising distribution of weapons, improvised explosive devices and IED components to insurgents for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In Logar province's Baraki Barak district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader and detained three other insurgents. The leader is alleged to be responsible for planning and conducting attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and to be instrumental in acquiring, transferring and selling weapons for insurgent operations. The security force seized a rocket-propelled grenade launcher, a grenade, a block of military-grade explosives, a mortar tube and tripod, and 20 mortar fuses in the operation.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR MARCH 6, 2013

U.S. Army soldiers move down into the Chorah Valley in Chorah in the Tarin Kowt district of Afghanistan's Uruzgan province, Feb. 23, 2013. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jessi Ann McCormick

FROM: U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT
Combined Force Kills Taliban CommanderFrom an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, March 6, 2013 - An Afghan and coalition security force killed one insurgent and wounded two others, including a Taliban commander, during an operation in the Giro district of Afghanistan's Ghazni province yesterday, military officials reported.

The deceased Taliban commander had exercised operational control over insurgent fighters in the area and was responsible for improvised explosive device attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, officials said, as well as executing a campaign of fear and intimidation against local citizens.

In other Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined force killed a Taliban leader, Biragh, in the Marjeh district of Helmand province. Biragh was responsible for conducting IED and small-arms attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also commanded multiple fighters and played a crucial role in facilitating weapons to insurgents.

-- A combined force killed a Taliban IED expert, Mushtaq, in the Kunduz district of Kunduz province. Mushtaq, also known as Azizullah or Khalid, was heavily involved in IED operations throughout the province. He personally carried out multiple IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, and distributed IEDs to fellow insurgents.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR MARCH 5, 2013

U.S. Marines conduct a combat logistics patrol to support Operation Dynamic Partnership in the village of Shurakay in Afghanistan's Helmand province, Feb. 15, 2013. The Marines are assigned to Combat Logistics Regiment 2. Several units joined in the operation to retrograde all U.S. military equipment and personnel from the village. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Alejandro Pena

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

KABUL, Afghanistan, March 5, 2013 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban facilitator and detained two other insurgents during an operation in Kandahar City in Afghanistan's Kandahar province today, military officials reported.

The arrested Taliban facilitator is linked to directing suicide attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the province, officials said. He's also linked to the deaths of Afghan civilians.

　
In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator and detained four other insurgents in the Panjwa'i district of Kandahar province. The arrested Taliban facilitator is accused of importing and distributing homemade explosive material and narcotics in the district, and securing funding for insurgent activity against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- In the Ghaziabad district of Kunar province, a combined force killed four insurgents and wounded three others during a security operation.

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 MARCH 1, 2013

U.S. Army Sgt. Calixto Inot, front, provides security outside a meeting at the Farah provincial governor's compound in Farah City, Afghanistan, Feb. 27, 2013. Inot is assigned to Provincial Reconstruction Team Farah. U.S. Navy photo by Lt. j.g. Matthew Stroup
 

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

KABUL, Afghanistan, March 1, 2013 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban facilitator and detained three other insurgents during an operation in the Nawah-ye Barakzai district of Afghanistan's Helmand province today, military officials reported.

The arrested insurgent is alleged to be heavily involved in improvised explosive device operations in the district. He also participated in multiple IED attacks and has a history of procuring and distributing IED components to other insurgents.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- A combined force killed Taliban leader, Sadiq, and wounded another insurgent during an operation in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province. Sadiq was an experienced insurgent leader responsible for procuring and distributing small arms and IEDs to Taliban fighters for use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also was involved with kidnappings of government officials and Afghan National Security Force members.

-- A combined force killed an insurgent during an operation in the Kishindeh district of Balkh province

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR FEBRUARY 28, 2013

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

KABUL, Afghanistan, Feb. 28, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force today arrested a high-profile Haqqani network attack facilitator and detained two other insurgents in the Pul-e Alam district of Afghanistan's Logar province, military officials reported.

The facilitator is believed to be responsible for transporting and facilitating weapons for insurgents in provinces across Afghanistan for use against Afghan and coalition security forces.

In other news, a precision strike called in by a combined force in Helmand province's Marjah district yesterday killed one insurgent and injured another.

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 22, 2013

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Thomas M. Feltey, second left, meets with an Afghan uniform police commander and other district leaders after the first district leaders' shura in Spin Boldak in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, Feb. 11, 2013. Feltry commands the 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Shane Hamann

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Precision Strike Kills Taliban IED Expert
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, Feb. 22, 2013 - A precision strike killed Zekaria, a Taliban improvised explosive device expert, in the Chahar Darah district of Afghanistan's Kunduz province yesterday, military officials reported.  The strike will significantly degrade the ability of insurgents to conduct attacks in the Charhar Darah district, International Security Assistance Force Joint Command officials said.

In other news, ISAF Joint Command officials confirmed today that Habib, a Taliban leader, was killed by a precision strike yesterday in Logar province's Charkh district. He obtained weapons for insurgents and helped to plan attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, officials said.

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 12, 2013

Credit:  U.S. Navy.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Coalition, Afghan Forces Arrest Weapons Distributor
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Feb. 12, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader in the Khanabad district of Afghanistan's Kunduz province today, military officials reported.

The leader allegedly facilitates distribution of weapons and assists in improvised explosive device operations in the district, officials said, adding that he oversees the acquisition, transfer and delivery of IED materials and explosives to insurgents.

Another suspected insurgent also was detained, and the security force seized firearms and ammunition in the operation.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force in Ghazni province's Andar district arrested a Taliban leader who allegedly has directly led attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and also has logistical and command responsibilities. He was engaged in the arms trade involving weapons, rocket-propelled grenades and IEDs. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent and seized a heavy machine gun with ammunition and some assault rifle ammunition.

-- In Nangarhar province's Khugyani district, a combined force detained three insurgents while searching for a Taliban leader believed to be responsible for planning and conducting attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also seized several assault rifles with associated equipment and ammunition.

In operations yesterday:

-- A precision strike in Kandahar province's Maiwand district killed a Taliban leader and facilitator who organized attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- Also in Kandahar's Maiwand district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader believed to be directly responsible for the coordination of complex attacks. His subordinate fighters were linked to several attacks on Afghan and coalition forces in the district, officials said. The security force also detained three suspected insurgents.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR FEBRUARY 11, 2013

Partrol In Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Marine Corps. 

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Searching for Taliban Leader Detains Insurgents
Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, Feb. 11, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force in the Maiwand district of Afghanistan's Kandahar province today detained four insurgents while searching of a senior Taliban leader, military officials reported.

The sought-after Taliban leader allegedly coordinates complex attacks and facilitates distribution of insurgent rockets, mortars, rifles and improvised explosive devices, officials said.

Also today, a combined force in Wardak province's Sayyidabad district arrested a Taliban leader believed to organize, facilitate and conduct IED attacks. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized a firearm.

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

-- In Kunar province's Ghaziabad district, a precision airstrike killed two armed insurgents.

-- Taliban leaders Afshin and Ismail were killed in Logar province's Baraki Barak district. Afshin was directly involved in a Dec. 24 attack that killed an American service member and a Dec. 28 attack that killed an Afghan soldier. Ismail was the district's deputy Taliban leader for the winter. He issued guidance on attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and financed the acquisition of IED-making materials, rockets and ammunition for heavy weapons. The security force also seized hand grenades and an assault-rifle with associated gear and ammunition.

-- A combined force arrested two Taliban leaders in Kunduz province's Kunduz district. One is accused of gathering materials and facilitating logistics for IED attacks against Afghan government officials and Afghan and coalition forces. The second is believed to be an IED cell member and weapons facilitator operating in the Baghlan-e Jadid district.

-- In Paktia province's Zurmat district, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader accused IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He is also believed to have overseen nearly 45 insurgent fighters. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent and seized an assault rifle with associated gear and ammunition.

In Feb. 9 operations:

-- A precision strike in Kandahar province's Maiwand district killed Taliban leader Abdul Baki, also known as Ruzi. He was known to operate as part of an extensive insurgent network in Uruzgan, Helmand and Kandahar provinces. He was responsible for coordinating complex attacks against Afghan and coalition forces using suicide bombers.

-- A combined force in Khost province's Sabari district detained a Haqqani network leader believed to be responsible for attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. He also accused of weapons and ammunition facilitation and coordinating the transfer of IEDs and weapon systems. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent and seized IED-making materials, homemade explosives, ammunition, hand grenades, and mortar rocket charges.

-- In Nimroz province's Khash Rod district, a combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator believed to have coordinated the movement of lethal aid, weapons and ammunition to insurgent networks throughout Helmand province's Nad-e Ali district. He is accused of being directly responsible for preparing, organizing and transporting a large shipment of illegal material and directing fighters in ambush attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent.

-- A combined force in Baghlan province's Burkah district arrested an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan leader believed to oversee intelligence operations and IED emplacement. He is also accused of providing safe haven for Taliban insurgents traveling through Burkah district. The security force also detained another suspected insurgent.

In a Feb. 8 operation, a combined force in Kandahar province's Panjwai district arrested a Taliban leader who operated out of central Kandahar City. He is believed responsible for organizing IED operations targeting Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained two other suspected insurgents.

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 30, 2013

 

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

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

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

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

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

The security force also detained four other suspected insurgents.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

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

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