Several IEDs destroyed, several insurgents killed in clearing operation in Kandahar

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

08.03.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL - An Afghan and coalition security force destroyed a house-borne improvised explosive device and killed several insurgents in Kandahar province in an on-going deliberate clearing operation aimed at disrupting the Taliban's freedom of movement in Zharay District.

During the search of one of the compounds, the assault force discovered a house-borne IED in one of the buildings. After clearing the entire compound to ensure no civilians were present, coalition forces called in a precision air strike to destroy the building. The successful strike did not damage surrounding buildings.

Later, the assault force discovered three trip wires attached to IEDs.

They cordoned off the area to ensure no one accidentally triggered the devices and they were destroyed.

The insurgents engaged the security force with rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire throughout the night. The air weapons team and ground force suppressed the enemy resulting in several insurgents killed. Additionally, a precision air strike killed several more insurgents as they engaged Afghan and coalition forces with a large caliber machine gun.

Throughout the search, the security force found a recoilless rifle mounted on a tri-pod, a machine gun and multiple rounds, along with IED material including at least 80 blasting caps and multiple pressure plates. They also discovered and cleared two enemy bunkers containing homemade explosives.

"These clearing operations put the pressure on the insurgents and make the area safer for its residents," said Col. Rafael Torres, ISAF Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director. "Afghan civilians could have easily stumbled on these operational and dangerous IEDs.

We're glad we were able to find and destroy them without any civilians getting hurt."

• Date Taken: 08.03.2010
• Date Posted: 08.03.2010 06:41
• Story ID: 53869
• Location: KABUL, AF