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 27, 2012

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

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

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

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

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

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

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

RECENT NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 23, 2012

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

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

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

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

The security force detained two other suspected insurgents.

In Nov. 21 Afghanistan operations:

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

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

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

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 20, 2012

Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Army Photo.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 16, 2012

Destroying Insurgent Position.  Credit:  U.S. DOD

FROM: U.S DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Combined Force Arrests Insurgents in Search for Taliban Leader

From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 16, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition force in Afghanistan's Helmand province arrested several suspected insurgents today during a search for a Taliban leader who facilitates the transfer of weapons and is involved in ambush attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces, military officials reported.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force in Nangarhar province arrested a Taliban weapons facilitator believed to have organized and executed the transfer of weapons and ammunition to Taliban fighters and to have planned assassinations. The security force also detained two other suspected insurgents and seized assault-style rifles.

-- In Logar province, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network leader suspected of planning and launching rocket-propelled grenades and 82 mm rockets against Afghan and coalition forces.

In Ghazni province yesterday, a combined force killed Taliban leader Hafiz Sadar and another insurgent. Also known as Sherin Agha, Hafiz Sadar was responsible for directing roadside-bomb and direct-fire attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, and he was directly accountable for the kidnapping of Afghan officials.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 15, 2012

Photo:  Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. DOD

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

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

In other Afghanistan operations today:

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

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

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

In operations yesterday:

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

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

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

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 NOVEMBER 13, 2012



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

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

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

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

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

In Afghanistan operations yesterday:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 9, 2012

Photo:  Afghanistan Landscape.  Credit:  CIA World Factbook.

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Arrests Haqqani Facilitator
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 9, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani facilitator in Afghanistan's Khost province today, military officials reported.

The facilitator is suspected of coordinating the delivery of weapons, improvised explosive device materials and fighters to insurgent leadership operating throughout western Khost province.

As a result of the operation, the security force also detained two suspected insurgents and seized homemade explosives, IED-making materials, several grenades, a large quantity of firearms with associated gear and ammunition and numerous bayonets.

In other Afghanistan operations today:
-- A combined force arrested a Haqqani senior leader in Logar province. The arrested leader is believed to have planned and conducted attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in southern Logar province. During the operation, the security force also detained two suspected insurgents.

-- An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader in Helmand province. The arrested leader is suspected of directing the purchase of IED components and overseeing IED emplacements. The security force also detained two suspected insurgents.

In operations yesterday:
-- Afghan Special Police members of Provincial Response Company Bhaglan, enabled by coalition forces, seized 36 rocket-propelled grenade warheads and 15,000 rounds of 12.7 mm ammunition from a weapons cache uncovered in northern Bhaglan province. All materials were destroyed on location.

-- Afghan Special Police members of Provincial Response Company Uruzgan, enabled by coalition forces, killed a number of insurgents and seized anti-tank weapons, more than 100,000 rounds of ammunition and several hand grenades in central Uruzgan province. All seized materials were destroyed.

-- An Afghan and coalition security force killed Taliban leader Qari Munib in Kunar province. Qari Munib was responsible for directing attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and coordinating the movement of weapons and ammunition for the attacks.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR NOVEMBER 8, 2012



Coalition Forces Train Afghan Police in Farah Province A NATO international coalition force member maintains security during an Afghan-led joint security patrol to deny the enemy freedom of movement in Khak-E-Safed in Afghanistan's Farah province, Oct. 30, 2012. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Pete Thibodeau

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Force Arrests Taliban Leader
American Forces Press Service
KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 8, 2012 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader in Afghanistan's Logar province today, military officials reported.

The arrested insurgent leader is linked to indirect-fire attacks on Afghan and coalition forces and led several indirect-fire attacks on Forward Operating Base Shank in the province.

The security force also detained two suspected insurgents.

In other Afghanistan operations today:

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban facilitator in Nangarhar province. The force killed one insurgent and wounded a second after being attacked as they approached the Taliban facilitator's location. The arrested facilitator enabled the distribution of weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices and suicide vests for use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also arrested two suspected insurgents and seized several grenades and an assault-style rifle with associated gear and ammunition.

In Nov. 6 operations:

A combined force seized more than three dozen one-liter bottles filled with homemade explosives primed with detonating cord and a number of pressure plates in Helmand province. All of the items were destroyed.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR OCTOBER 30, 2012

Afghanistan Patrol  Credit:  U.S. Army

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE,

Combined Force Arrests Taliban Leader

From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, Oct. 30, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader in Afghanistan's Helmand province today, military officials reported.

The arrested insurgent leader is believed to be involved in providing tactical guidance to Taliban senior leaders while facilitating the movement of improvised explosive device components to other insurgents.

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

In other operations today:

-- A combined force arrested a Taliban weapons and IED facilitator in Kandahar province. The arrested facilitator is suspected of smuggling weapons throughout Kandahar province and acquiring homemade explosives and other IED-making materials for use in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force detained a number of insurgents during a search for a Haqqani leader in Logar province. The sought-after Haqqani leader is believed responsible for coordinating and executing IED and small-arms fire attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces throughout northern Logar province.

And during an Oct. 29 operation, a combined force arrested a Taliban leader in Kandahar province. The arrested insurgent leader is believed to have assisted in inspecting and relocating IEDs within western Kandahar province.

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR OCTOBER 23, 2012

Photo:  Afghanistan.  Credit:  U.S. Army

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

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

KABUL, Afghanistan, Oct. 23, 2012 - An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban fighter in Afghanistan's Kunduz province today, military officials reported.

The arrested insurgent fighter is suspected of organizing and executing attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout Kunduz province.

During the operation, the security force also detained two other suspected insurgents.

In other operations today:
-- A combined force detained a number of insurgents during a search for a Taliban facilitator in Helmand province. The facilitator coordinates and assists in improvised explosive device attacks in central Helmand province.

-- In Kandahar province, a combined force detained a number of insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader responsible for conducting IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout Kandahar province.

In operations yesterday:
-- Afghan special police, enabled by coalition forces, arrested several suspected insurgents while executing an Afghan search warrant in Balkh province. After searching the immediate area the combined force found and seized several weapons and IED-making materials.

-- Combined forces in Wardak province killed Taliban leader Ghulam Ali, a Taliban leader directly responsible for coordinating attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, facilitating the transfer of weapons throughout Wardak province, and developing Taliban network attack plans with other Taliban leaders.

-- Afghan special police, enabled by coalition forces, killed two enemy fighters and seized weapons, ammunition and narcotics in Uruzgan province.

-- Combined forces killed two insurgents in Logar province conducting a mortar attack against Forward Operating Base Shank.

-- A combined force in Paktia province killed Haqqani network leader Niaz Mohammad, who was responsible for planning and participating in ambush attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the area.

In an Oct. 21 operation, Taliban leader Qasim was killed in Kandahar province. He was responsible for the acquisition and distribution of weapons and ammunition for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces based in the area. An Oct. 20 coalition operation killed a senior Taliban leader and a number of associated insurgents in Uruzgan province.

　

　

　


　

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN, SEPTEMBER 26, 2012

 

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

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

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

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

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

In operations around Afghanistan yesterday:

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

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

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

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

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

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

NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN SEPTEMBER 21, 2012

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Mark Scott uses his weapon's scope to scan the area while providing security from his battle position during an escort detail at Forward Operating Base Farah in Afghanistan's Farah province on April 7, 2012. Scott is assigned to Provincial Reconstruction Team Farah's security force. DoD photo by Staff Sgt. Jonathan Lovelady, U.S. Air Force. (Released)
　

Forces Arrest Taliban, Haqqani Leaders in Afghanistan
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 21, 2012 - Afghan and coalition security forces arrested a Taliban leader, as well as a Haqqani chief, during a security operation in the Sayyid Karam district of Pakitya province today, military officials reported.

The detained Taliban leader is linked to the Nov. 10, 2011, suicide attack that resulted in the deaths of Afghan police officers in the Tsamkani district of Paktiya province.

The detained Haqqani leader is a suspected improvised explosive device expert who is believed to have constructed IEDs, planned their use and facilitated their movement throughout the region to attack Afghan and coalition forces, officials said.

One armed insurgent was killed during the operation, officials said. As the security force attempted to enter the Taliban leader's compound, the armed insurgent fired upon Afghan and coalition troops. The security force returned fire, killing the armed insurgent. No civilians were harmed in the exchange.

The security force also detained several suspected insurgents and seized one assault rifle and Taliban paraphernalia, officials said.

In other operations today:

-- In the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province, a combined force arrested several suspects during a search for a Taliban leader. The sought-after Taliban leader is suspected of conducting insurgent operations throughout northern Helmand, in addition to providing equipment and supplies for attacks on Afghan and coalition forces.

-- A combined force detained multiple suspects during a search for a senior Taliban leader in the Atghar district of Zabul province. The sought-after Taliban leader is linked to insurgent activity and attacks throughout the Atghar district. He is also believed to command several dozen insurgent fighters in Zabul province.

-- In the Pul-e 'Alam district of Logar province, a combined force arrested a suspected Haqqani leader, who's linked to attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the district, as well as supporting other Haqqani leaders throughout the region. The arrested Haqqani leader is linked to an insurgent network which was responsible for ambushes and mortar attacks. The security force also detained one other suspect.

-- A combined force detained several suspects and seized an assault rifle during a search for a Taliban weapons dealer in the Sayyidabad district of Wardak province. The sought-after weapons dealer is alleged to be responsible for providing weapons, ammunition and IEDs for insurgent attacks.

In operations yesterday:

-- Mullah Naim, the senior Taliban leader for the Balkh district of Balkh province, was killed by a combined force. No civilians were harmed during the operation. Mullah Naim -- also known as Mutaqi, Khodai Nur and Mullah Ayeno -- was responsible for insurgent activity throughout the region. He was also believed to be one of the key figures behind a recent IED attack in Mazar-e Sharif that killed several Afghan civilians. The security force also detained one suspect and seized multiple firearms, grenades and explosives.

-- A combined force killed a group of armed insurgents during a vehicle interdiction and narcotics recovery operation in the Nimroz district of Helmand province. Drugs found in the vehicles included 5,000 pounds of dry opium, 330 pounds of wet opium, 1,873 pounds of brown heroin and one bag of hashish. The security force also seized some machine guns, ammunition and magazines. The drugs were destroyed.

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 FOR AUGUST 5, 2012

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Airstrike Kills Taliban Leader Involved in Aug. 7 Attack
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 5, 2012 - One of the Taliban leaders behind an Aug. 7 attack on a coalition base in Afghanistan's Logar province was killed by Afghan and coalition security forces in Logar's Pul-e Alam district yesterday, military officials reported.

Afghan and coalition security forces positively identified the Taliban leader, Bismullah, and two additional insurgents and killed them with a precision airstrike after confirming no civilians were in the area, officials said.

Bismullah is believed to have supplied suicide bombers with essential equipment for the Aug. 7 attack, which wounded several Afghan civilians but failed to cause any significant damage to the coalition base. At the time of his death, officials said, he was believed to be planning another large-scale attack and had transported several rockets across the region.

A post-strike assessment determined no civilian property was damaged and no civilians were harmed.

In other news, a combined Afghan and coalition security force killed several armed insurgents during an operation to arrest a senior Taliban leader in Balkh province's Chimtal district today. As the security force approached the Taliban leader's suspected location, several insurgents opened fire and the security force returned fire.

In operations yesterday:

-- A combined force of coalition troops and Afghan special police in Kandahar province's Maiwand district seized a vehicle packed with nearly 3 tons of explosives. The Afghan-led team stopped the vehicle and detained its three occupants. The vehicle is believed to have been bound for bomb makers in Helmand and Kandahar provinces, officials said, and the explosives were destroyed on site.

-- The Wardak Provincial Response Company and coalition forces disrupted an insurgent attack on an Afghan army security patrol in Wardak province's Maidan Shahr district. Responding to a reported insurgent ambush on the patrol, the response company provided covering fire for the unit in contact and conducted a follow-on mission to investigate a suspected Taliban checkpoint.