Suspected insurgents detained in Helmand

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

09.20.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL – An Afghan and coalition security force detained several suspected Taliban insurgents in Helmand province Sunday while in pursuit of a Taliban improvised explosive device manufacturer whose rare specialty includes building IED detonators and initiators.

Intelligence reports led the security force to target a compound in Nahr-e Saraj district to search for the bomb expert, who regularly tests and purchases Iranian ammonium nitrate. Afghan forces called for all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully and then the combined force cleared and secured the area.

After questioning the residents at each of the buildings, the security force detained the suspected insurgents. The security force also found 45 pounds of wet opium, often trafficked by the Taliban to fund their activities.

The assault force did not fire their weapons and they protected the women and children throughout the search.

• Date Taken: 09.20.2010
• Date Posted: 09.20.2010 02:14
• Story ID: 56604
• Location: KABUL, AF