Suspected insurgents detained in pursuit of Taliban leadership

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

10.05.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan and coalition security forces detained several suspected Taliban insurgents in Helmand province Monday while in pursuit of a Taliban leader who commands up to 20 fighters in the Sistani area of Marjah district.

Intelligence tips led the joint security force to a remote compound in Marjah district to search for the targeted individual. Afghan forces used a loudspeaker to call for all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully and then the joint security force moved to clear and secure the compound.

In one of the buildings, the security force found a man shackled and locked in one of the rooms, who claimed he was an Afghan National Police member and the Taliban had kidnapped him. The security force is still gathering information to confirm his identity.

After the area was secure, the joint force conducted initial questioning with the residents at the scene before detaining the suspected insurgents. The security force also found multiple grenades, AK-47 magazines and ammunition, along with 20 pounds of wet opium, which is often trafficked to fund insurgent activities.

The security force did not fire their weapons and they protected the women and children for the duration of the search.

• Date Taken: 10.05.2010
• Date Posted: 10.05.2010 01:48
• Story ID: 57506
• Location: KABUL, AF