Forces Detain Insurgents in Afghanistan Operations

Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases

WASHINGTON, March 22, 2011 – Afghan and coalition forces detained at least 15 suspected insurgents, including several Taliban leaders and foreign fighters, in operations yesterday throughout Afghanistan, military officials reported.

-- In the Sholgarah district of Balkh province, troops captured an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan terrorist leader and three associates for alleged involvement in training camps and trafficking foreign fighters, as well as launching attacks on security forces.

-- Afghan and coalition forces in Kandahar province’s Ghorak district detained five suspected insurgents, including a Taliban leader responsible for procuring and distributing bomb-making materials throughout Helmand and Kandahar provinces.

-- Security forces operating in Kandahar province’s Daman district captured two suspected insurgents and a Taliban weapons trafficker who’s linked to attacks on security forces and innocent civilians.

-- In Khost province’s Bak district, troops captured a Haqqani network terrorist responsible for trafficking weapons and participating in attacks on security forces.

-- Forces captured another Haqqani network terrorist in Khost province’s Sabari district. The terrorist is responsible for leading and coordinating attacks against security forces. Several other suspected insurgents were detained during the operation.