Afghan, Coalition Force Search Suspected Taliban Compound in Helmand

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

07.19.2009

Courtesy Story

U.S. Forces Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan — A joint Afghan and coalition force searched a compound last night in southern Helmand province, thought to be used by a Taliban commander responsible for the flow of foreign fighters, drug trafficking, and facilitating attacks in the region.

The force searched the compound, near the village of Najibollah Khan Kalay, about 90 kilometers south of Lashkar Gah, after intelligence indicated militant activity. The force conducted a search of the buildings without incident and confiscated eight shotguns, over a hundred bags of ammonium nitrate, which is a key ingredient used in explosives, and poppy seeds. The confiscated items were destroyed in place and two suspected militants were detained.

Helmand province has been increasingly plagued by Taliban violence as militants seek to disrupt governance and security in the region. Taliban commanders routinely seek strongholds in Helmand to facilitate the movement of fighters into the heart of Afghanistan.

There were no ANA, coalition forces or civilian casualties during this incident.

• Date Taken: 07.19.2009
• Date Posted: 07.19.2009 02:59
• Story ID: 36530
• Location: KABUL, AF