Suspected Militant Captured in Afghanistan; Weapons Caches Seized

American Forces Press Service

May 15, 2007 – Afghan and coalition forces detained a suspected militant and discovered two weapons caches during operations in Afghanistan today. At a compound in the Mandozai district of Khowst province, combined forces captured one militant with alleged ties to the extremist Siraj Haqqani's suicide-bombing network, military officials said.

After detaining the suspect, combined forces found two AK47 assault rifles, a shotgun, 500 ammunition rounds and various other weapons. Troops also seized equipment used to manufacture improvised explosive devices and suicide bombs.

Coalition forces removed the cache and destroyed it nearby. No shots were fired, and no one was injured in the operation.

In other news, coalition forces received rifle fire from a group of insurgents this morning near Jusalay village, about a mile northeast of Sangin District Center, in Helmand province. Troops maneuvered toward the enemy position and pursued the insurgents as they attempted to flee. Coalition forces searched a compound during the pursuit and discovered a cache containing weapons and ammunition.

There were no reports of Afghan civilian or coalition force injuries during the firefight.

"Together with the support of all Afghans, the enemies of peace and stability will be defeated in Sangin District," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "We will work together to rid the area of insurgent fighters and prevent their return."

(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)

Article sponsored by Criminal Justice online leadership; and, law enforcement personnel who have written books.