May 29, 2007

Afghan National Police Detain Al-Qaeda Cell Commander in Khowst

KHOWST, Afghanistan - Afghan National Police, advised by Coalition forces, detained one al-Qaida cell commander in the Bak District of Khowst Province just after midnight on May 25.
Credible information led ANP and Coalition forces to the village of Pelekhail where they detained an al-Qaida cell commander, known only as Mujahid. ANP detained Mujahid and two other men for questioning while conducting a search of a compound in the village. No shots were fired during the successful operation and there were no injuries to Afghan civilians or ANP members.

The enemy commander, known only by his first name, has been responsible for multiple improvised explosive device and suicide bomber attacks in Khowst Province. Mujahid has targeted schools and government officials resulting in the deaths of dozens of innocent civilians. He has also been involved in weapons smuggling and supplying logistics to other al- Qaida fighters.

“The removal of Mujahid will help bring peace and stability to the Afghan civilians in Khowst Province,” said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force- 82 spokesperson. “Intelligence gained from this al-Qaida cell leader will surely lead us to other al-Qaida members. The enemies of Afghanistan may run but can not hide from Afghan National Security and Coalition forces.”

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