Taliban Leader Arrested in Kandahar

From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release

KABUL, Afghanistan – An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban network leader in the Kandahar district of Afghanistan’s Kandahar province yesterday, military officials reported.

The Taliban leader is believed to have directed distribution of weapons and explosives in central Kandahar, officials said. He also is believed to have planned several high-profile attacks in the region.

At the time of his arrest, officials added, he was believed to be acquiring weapons and bombs for an imminent attack. The security force also detained several suspected insurgents during the operation.

Also yesterday, an Afghan and coalition security force detained several suspected insurgents and seized explosive material in Helmand province’s Nad-e Ali district. The operation targeted a Taliban insurgent network conducting attacks throughout western Helmand, officials said.