Taliban commander, two suspected insurgents detained in Helmand

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

08.03.2010

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL - An Afghan and coalition security force detained three suspected insurgents in Helmand province last night including a Taliban sub-commander who facilitated weapons and logistics for the Taliban fighters operating in Lashkar Gah District.

The security force targeted a compound on the outskirts of Lashkar Gah city to search for the commander. Afghan forces used a loudspeaker to call for all occupants to peacefully exit the buildings and then secured the area. After questioning all of the residents, the security force detained the commander and two suspected insurgents for further questioning. The assault force found an AK-47, pistol and 700,000 Pakistani rupees at the scene.

Afghan and coalition forces did not fire their weapons and they protected the women and children throughout the search.

"This key capture will disrupt the Taliban operating in central and northern Helmand province," said Col. Rafael Torres, ISAF Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director. "The Afghan people are ready for peace and these operations provide an opportunity to establish the stability needed to make those wishes come true."

• Date Taken: 08.03.2010
• Date Posted: 08.03.2010 07:01
• Story ID: 53873
• Location: KABUL, AF