Coalition Forces Kill, Detain Insurgents in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service

Sept. 7, 2008 - Coalition forces in Afghanistan killed more than 10 insurgents and captured seven others during a series of operations conducted in Khowst province over the past few days, military officials reported. Yesterday, coalition forces killed more than ten armed militants and detained three others during an operation in Khowst province. The operation targeted a Haqqani militant wanted for conducting and coordinating direct and suicide attacks in Sabari district. This militant was killed during the operation.

As coalition forces approached the targeted compound, groups of militants fled the area, firing on the force as they moved to a nearby treeline. The force pursued the militants and engaged them with small-arms fire. Coalition forces killed at least 10 of the enemy with direct fire from ground forces, helicopters and precision airstrikes. A search of the treeline revealed multiple rocket-propelled grenades, AK-47 rifles and other military equipment.

During the fire fight coalition forces encountered three additional armed militants. The force repeatedly called for the militants to surrender, but one militant refused to comply and was killed. The other two militants were detained. Coalition forces found additional RPGs, AK-47s, ammunition and other equipment. Another militant found in the compound was detained.

In other news, coalition forces detained four suspected militants during multiple operations conducted in Khowst province Sept. 5.

The first operation resulting in the capture of a suspected terrorist leader wanted for facilitating the movement of foreign fighters into the region and directing attacks against innocent civilians and coalition forces. It is also believed he aids financial operations for the Haqqani terrorist network.

The second operation resulted in the capture of two more suspected militants. One of the detainees is wanted in connection with suicide attacks and vehicle-borne improvised explosive assaults in the Khowst area. Intelligence reports indicate the militant is a longtime Haqqani-network member linked to recent attacks that killed and injured innocent civilians.