ISAF | KABUL, Afghanistan - Rear Adm. Jan Thornqvist, chief of the Royal Swedish navy, visited Swedish forces in Mazar-e-Sharif in northern Afghanistan and International Security Assistance Force headquarters in Kabul last week.
"Sweden supported coalition efforts and the ISAF mission almost from the beginning. Sweden's support and leadership in Mazar-e-Sharif area has been steadfast and seen great success as the Afghans have taken over security responsibility. We honor the lives of the four Swedish military personnel who gave their lives for the ISAF mission on behalf of the Afghan people," said General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., Commander of ISAF.
READ MORE
Showing posts with label ISAF. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ISAF. Show all posts
July 1, 2013
U.S. Casualties Hit 5-Year Low in Afghanistan as Troops’ Role Turns to Advising
Jay Price | McClatchy Foreign Staff | KABUL, Afghanistan — The shift to Afghan security forces leading in combat and the ongoing reduction of U.S. troops here have driven American casualties during the first half of 2013 to the lowest level in five years.
"Afghan National Security Forces are primarily the units in contact with enemy forces, rather than ISAF personnel," Lt. Tamarac Dyer, a spokeswoman for the U.S.-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) wrote in an emailed response to questions about casualties. In the first six months of the year, 72 American troops were killed in Afghanistan, according to icasualties.org, a web site that tracks casualties.
The last year when casualties were that low for the same period was 2008. Then, 66 Americans died in between January and June, and 155 were killed in the full year. The worst year for U.S. casualties was 2010, when 499 Americans died. All told, more than 2,200 U.S. troops have been killed since the war began in 2001.
READ MORE
"Afghan National Security Forces are primarily the units in contact with enemy forces, rather than ISAF personnel," Lt. Tamarac Dyer, a spokeswoman for the U.S.-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) wrote in an emailed response to questions about casualties. In the first six months of the year, 72 American troops were killed in Afghanistan, according to icasualties.org, a web site that tracks casualties.
The last year when casualties were that low for the same period was 2008. Then, 66 Americans died in between January and June, and 155 were killed in the full year. The worst year for U.S. casualties was 2010, when 499 Americans died. All told, more than 2,200 U.S. troops have been killed since the war began in 2001.
READ MORE
March 13, 2013
Combined Force Arrests Haqqani Network Facilitator in Khost Province
International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release | KABUL, Afghanistan, March 13, 2013 | A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Haqqani network facilitator and another insurgent in the Tanai district of Afghanistan’s Khost province today, military officials reported. (READ MORE)
September 28, 2012
Pakistani al Qaeda 'Facilitator' Killed in Kunar Airstrike
Special operations forces killed an al Qaeda "facilitator" from Pakistan in an airstrike in the remote eastern Afghan province of Kunar, which has served as a terrorist safe haven. The al Qaeda facilitator is the seventh senior Pakistani jihadist killed in Kunar since June.
The International Security Assistance Force confirmed that Abdul Rauf, who is also known as Iftikhar, was killed in an airstrike in the Marawarah district on Sept. 23. "Security force engaged Abdul Rauf with a precision airstrike, killing him and two other insurgents," ISAF said in a press release. The strike was called in after Rauf was seen while "engaged in insurgent activity."
Rauf was "a Pakistani al Qaeda facilitator who coordinated the movement of foreign fighters into the country, as well as constructing improvised explosive devices for attacks against security forces," according to ISAF. The term "foreign fighters" is often used by ISAF to describe foreign al Qaeda fighters. (READ MORE)
Rauf was "a Pakistani al Qaeda facilitator who coordinated the movement of foreign fighters into the country, as well as constructing improvised explosive devices for attacks against security forces," according to ISAF. The term "foreign fighters" is often used by ISAF to describe foreign al Qaeda fighters. (READ MORE)
NATO Says Troops Free 3 Afghans Abducted by Taliban
SINA | Friday 28th September, 2012 | KABUL, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The NATO-led coalition forces had freed three civilians kidnapped by the Taliban six days ago in southern Afghan province of Kandahar, the coalition forces confirmed on Friday. "An International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) patrol rescued three Afghans who were being held hostage by Taliban in Panjwai district, Kandahar province yesterday," the coalition said in a press release. (READ MORE)
September 27, 2012
Combined Force Detains Insurgents, Seizes Narcotics
International Security Assistance Force | Joint Command News Release | KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 27, 2012 – A combined security force detained several suspected insurgents during an operation to arrest a Taliban facilitator in the Washer district of Helmand province today, military officials reported.
The facilitator is alleged to coordinate the movement of insurgent fighters and weapons, as well as coordinating attacks across northern Helmand province, officials said. (READ MORE)
The facilitator is alleged to coordinate the movement of insurgent fighters and weapons, as well as coordinating attacks across northern Helmand province, officials said. (READ MORE)
September 26, 2012
ISAF Joint Command Morning Operational Update
ISAF Joint Command | KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan and coalition forces conducted a security operation resulting in the death of Malang, a Taliban leader in Sayyidabad district, Wardak province, Tuesday.
During the operation the security force observed Malang, also known as Monsur, engaged in insurgent activity. After ensuring that no civilians were in the area, the security force engaged Malang with a precision airstrike, killing him.
At the time of his death, Malang was directly involved in planning attacks using improvised explosive devices against Afghan and coalition forces, as well coordinating the movement of insurgent fighters throughout the region.
A post-strike assessment determined no civilians were harmed and no civilian property was damaged during the operation.
In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:
South
In Nawa district, Helmand province Saturday, an orphaned Afghan boy between 10 and 12 years old escaped from insurgents who were attempting to use him as a suicide bomber, and fled to the Afghan National Police.
According to the boy, insurgents had given him money in order to influence him to wear a suicide vest and detonate this near ISAF or ANSF personnel. The boy refused. The boy is currently receiving care and support from the Afghan police.
East
An Afghan and coalition security force arrested two Taliban leaders - an attack commander and an improvised explosive (IED) expert - during an operation in Ghazni district, Ghazni province today. The detained Taliban attack commander is suspected of having directed IED attacks against coalition and Afghan security forces across the district, in addition to coordinating the construction of homemade explosives and providing training on their use and placement. The detained Taliban IED expert acquired and constructed several types of explosives for insurgent attacks and is also believed to be involved in suicide bomber training. The security force also detained three suspected insurgents as a result of this operation.
Afghan and coalition forces today confirmed the arrest of a Haqqani improvised explosive device attack leader in Khost district, Khost province, Monday. The detained Haqqani leader is suspected of having coordinated and planned IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the region. He was directly involved in acquiring and distributing large amount of explosives and weapons, as well as providing training on the use of homemade bombs. At the time of his arrest, the Haqqani leader was believed to have been attempting to infiltrate Afghan security forces. The security force also seized several firearms and heavy weapons ammunition as a result of the operation.
Provincial Response Company Wardak, mentored by coalition forces, reinforced another PRC patrol under enemy fire in Maidan Shahr district, Wardak province yesterday and successfully defeated the insurgent attack, causing seven enemy killed in action. Responding to the request for a quick reaction force, the combined Afghan Special Police and coalition element reached the unit in contact and was itself engaged by small arms and rocket propelled grenade fire from insurgents before successfully fighting off the attack. Coalition officials said the rapid and effective response from PRC Wardak demonstrates their increased capability in responding to enemy attacks and their dedication to supporting their fellow Afghans in arms.
An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader in Wali Muhammad Shahid Khugyani district, Ghazni province, today. The detained Taliban leader is believed to have coordinated with insurgent groups to conduct direct-fire and improvised explosive device attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained four suspected insurgents as a result of the operation.
Afghan National Army soldiers in partnership with United States Special Forces killed one insurgent after being attacked at a local bazaar and a combined ANA and U.S. outpost in Bahadur village, Wardak province yesterday. After approximately 8-10 insurgents opened fire with small arms and rocket propelled grenades, the combined force returned fire, secured the bazaar and village, and killed one insurgent at his fighting position. No civilians or Afghan National Security Forces were injured or killed during the engagement.
During the operation the security force observed Malang, also known as Monsur, engaged in insurgent activity. After ensuring that no civilians were in the area, the security force engaged Malang with a precision airstrike, killing him.
At the time of his death, Malang was directly involved in planning attacks using improvised explosive devices against Afghan and coalition forces, as well coordinating the movement of insurgent fighters throughout the region.
A post-strike assessment determined no civilians were harmed and no civilian property was damaged during the operation.
In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:
South
In Nawa district, Helmand province Saturday, an orphaned Afghan boy between 10 and 12 years old escaped from insurgents who were attempting to use him as a suicide bomber, and fled to the Afghan National Police.
According to the boy, insurgents had given him money in order to influence him to wear a suicide vest and detonate this near ISAF or ANSF personnel. The boy refused. The boy is currently receiving care and support from the Afghan police.
East
An Afghan and coalition security force arrested two Taliban leaders - an attack commander and an improvised explosive (IED) expert - during an operation in Ghazni district, Ghazni province today. The detained Taliban attack commander is suspected of having directed IED attacks against coalition and Afghan security forces across the district, in addition to coordinating the construction of homemade explosives and providing training on their use and placement. The detained Taliban IED expert acquired and constructed several types of explosives for insurgent attacks and is also believed to be involved in suicide bomber training. The security force also detained three suspected insurgents as a result of this operation.
Afghan and coalition forces today confirmed the arrest of a Haqqani improvised explosive device attack leader in Khost district, Khost province, Monday. The detained Haqqani leader is suspected of having coordinated and planned IED attacks against Afghan and coalition forces throughout the region. He was directly involved in acquiring and distributing large amount of explosives and weapons, as well as providing training on the use of homemade bombs. At the time of his arrest, the Haqqani leader was believed to have been attempting to infiltrate Afghan security forces. The security force also seized several firearms and heavy weapons ammunition as a result of the operation.
Provincial Response Company Wardak, mentored by coalition forces, reinforced another PRC patrol under enemy fire in Maidan Shahr district, Wardak province yesterday and successfully defeated the insurgent attack, causing seven enemy killed in action. Responding to the request for a quick reaction force, the combined Afghan Special Police and coalition element reached the unit in contact and was itself engaged by small arms and rocket propelled grenade fire from insurgents before successfully fighting off the attack. Coalition officials said the rapid and effective response from PRC Wardak demonstrates their increased capability in responding to enemy attacks and their dedication to supporting their fellow Afghans in arms.
An Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader in Wali Muhammad Shahid Khugyani district, Ghazni province, today. The detained Taliban leader is believed to have coordinated with insurgent groups to conduct direct-fire and improvised explosive device attacks targeting Afghan and coalition forces. The security force also detained four suspected insurgents as a result of the operation.
Afghan National Army soldiers in partnership with United States Special Forces killed one insurgent after being attacked at a local bazaar and a combined ANA and U.S. outpost in Bahadur village, Wardak province yesterday. After approximately 8-10 insurgents opened fire with small arms and rocket propelled grenades, the combined force returned fire, secured the bazaar and village, and killed one insurgent at his fighting position. No civilians or Afghan National Security Forces were injured or killed during the engagement.
September 25, 2012
Camp Bastion Defenders Discuss Repelling Insurgent Attack
ISAF | By Sgt. John Jackson | RC-Southwest | CAMP BASTION, Afghanistan (Sept. 24, 2012) - Sergeant Rasheem Thomas never thought his first night working on Camp Bastion would turn into a gun battle with 15 insurgents.
When Thomas was told he was transferring from 1st Platoon to 2nd Platoon, the landing support specialist with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 15, thought nothing of it. Instead of working on Camp Leatherneck, Thomas would be working at the rotary wing Arrival Departure Airfield Control Group on Camp Bastion, an adjoining base ran by British Armed Forces. He would be responsible for getting coalition forces and cargo on helicopters departing Camp Bastion’s airfield heading for remote forward operating bases throughout Regional Command Southwest’s area of operations.
Thomas’ first night on Camp Bastion was Friday, Sept. 14. He and a fellow sergeant were driving through a checkpoint close to the airfield when they heard an explosion.... (READ MORE)
When Thomas was told he was transferring from 1st Platoon to 2nd Platoon, the landing support specialist with Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 15, thought nothing of it. Instead of working on Camp Leatherneck, Thomas would be working at the rotary wing Arrival Departure Airfield Control Group on Camp Bastion, an adjoining base ran by British Armed Forces. He would be responsible for getting coalition forces and cargo on helicopters departing Camp Bastion’s airfield heading for remote forward operating bases throughout Regional Command Southwest’s area of operations.
Thomas’ first night on Camp Bastion was Friday, Sept. 14. He and a fellow sergeant were driving through a checkpoint close to the airfield when they heard an explosion.... (READ MORE)
October 20, 2011
ISAF Joint Command morning operational update, Oct. 20, 2011
2011-10-S-040
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
For Immediate Release
KABUL, Afghanistan (Oct. 20, 2011) — A combined Afghan and coalition security force detained multiple suspected insurgents during a security operation in search of a Taliban leader in Wali Muhammad Shahid Khugyani district, Ghazni province.
The leader coordinates with fellow insurgent leaders to plan attacks in the Ghazni province.
In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:
South
A combined Afghan and coalition patrol discovered a large store of explosives in Zabul Province, today. The patrol was conducting a clearing operation in the village of Arel when they came upon the cache near an improvised explosive device. The cache contained two containers with 88 pounds (40 kilograms) of explosive material, 26 pounds (12 kilograms) of ammonium nitrate and bomb making materials. The IED and explosives were seized by the security force for safe disposal at a later date. No civilians were injured during the search or removal of the explosives.
East
A combined Afghan and coalition security force detained two suspected insurgents and discovered an explosives cache during an operation in Ghazni district, Ghazni province, yesterday. The cache consisted of 880 pounds (400 kilograms) of homemade explosives that were safely destroyed on site. The insurgents were detained for processing and further questioning.
In Charkh district, Logar province, a combined Afghan and coalition security force detained one suspected insurgent during an operation in search of a Taliban leader. The leader conducts attacks against coalition forces in the Logar province.
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
For Immediate Release
KABUL, Afghanistan (Oct. 20, 2011) — A combined Afghan and coalition security force detained multiple suspected insurgents during a security operation in search of a Taliban leader in Wali Muhammad Shahid Khugyani district, Ghazni province.
The leader coordinates with fellow insurgent leaders to plan attacks in the Ghazni province.
In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:
South
A combined Afghan and coalition patrol discovered a large store of explosives in Zabul Province, today. The patrol was conducting a clearing operation in the village of Arel when they came upon the cache near an improvised explosive device. The cache contained two containers with 88 pounds (40 kilograms) of explosive material, 26 pounds (12 kilograms) of ammonium nitrate and bomb making materials. The IED and explosives were seized by the security force for safe disposal at a later date. No civilians were injured during the search or removal of the explosives.
East
A combined Afghan and coalition security force detained two suspected insurgents and discovered an explosives cache during an operation in Ghazni district, Ghazni province, yesterday. The cache consisted of 880 pounds (400 kilograms) of homemade explosives that were safely destroyed on site. The insurgents were detained for processing and further questioning.
In Charkh district, Logar province, a combined Afghan and coalition security force detained one suspected insurgent during an operation in search of a Taliban leader. The leader conducts attacks against coalition forces in the Logar province.
October 18, 2011
ISAF Joint Command morning operational update, Oct. 18, 2011
2011-10-S-036
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
For Immediate Release
KABUL, Afghanistan (Oct. 18, 2011) — A combined Afghan and coalition security force detained multiple suspected insurgents during an operation in search of a facilitator in Gomal district, Paktika province, Monday.
The facilitator plans and conducts attacks against coalition forces in the Sarobi and Orgun districts.
In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:
North
In Kunduz district, Kunduz province, a combined Afghan and coalition security force detained one suspect during an operation in search of an insurgent leader, yesterday. The leader plans suicide bomb attacks both in Kunduz and Badakhshan provinces.
South
A combined Afghan and coalition security force captured a Taliban leader during an operation in Kandahar district, Kandahar province. The leader received shipments of explosives and weapons used to support Taliban operations in the area.
In Reg-e Khan Neshin district, Helmand province, a coalition patrol uncovered a drug cache, yesterday, consisting of 315 pounds (143 kilograms) of hashish that was seized by the force for safe disposal at a later date. One suspected insurgent was detained during the operation.
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
For Immediate Release
KABUL, Afghanistan (Oct. 18, 2011) — A combined Afghan and coalition security force detained multiple suspected insurgents during an operation in search of a facilitator in Gomal district, Paktika province, Monday.
The facilitator plans and conducts attacks against coalition forces in the Sarobi and Orgun districts.
In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:
North
In Kunduz district, Kunduz province, a combined Afghan and coalition security force detained one suspect during an operation in search of an insurgent leader, yesterday. The leader plans suicide bomb attacks both in Kunduz and Badakhshan provinces.
South
A combined Afghan and coalition security force captured a Taliban leader during an operation in Kandahar district, Kandahar province. The leader received shipments of explosives and weapons used to support Taliban operations in the area.
In Reg-e Khan Neshin district, Helmand province, a coalition patrol uncovered a drug cache, yesterday, consisting of 315 pounds (143 kilograms) of hashish that was seized by the force for safe disposal at a later date. One suspected insurgent was detained during the operation.
October 6, 2011
ISAF Joint Command morning operational update, Oct. 6, 2011
2011-10-S-011
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
For Immediate Release
KABUL, Afghanistan (Oct. 6, 2011) — In Jani Khel district, Paktika province, a combined Afghan and coalition security force killed three insurgents during an operation in search of a Haqqani network leader.
The leader distributes weapons, ammunition, and roadside bombs to other insurgent leaders throughout region for use in attacks against Afghan forces.
At the onset of the operations, the security force was engaged by rocket-propelled grenade, machine gun and small arms fire, responding to the immediate threat the security force returned fire, killing three and wounding one insurgent.
Additionally, one local national female was killed and a local national female was wounded during the operation. Both the females were located inside of the building from which the insurgents were firing at the security force.
Both wounded individuals were transported by the coalition force and are being medically cared for at this time. A local leader engagement will be held with the deputy governor to discuss the incident.
Multiple weapons were confiscated to include a PKM machine gun with 500 rounds, as well as, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher with multiple rocket-propelled grenades.
Three suspected insurgents were detained during the operation.
In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:
South
A combined Afghan and coalition security force captured a Taliban leader during a security operation in Kandahar district, Kandahar province. The leader was responsible for abductions in the area, as well as, the movement of foreign fighters into Afghanistan. No civilians were injured during the operation.
A Taliban leader was captured and two insurgents were killed by a combined Afghan and coalition security force during an operation in Musa Qal’ah district, Helmand province. The leader operated a roadside bomb factory, as well as, distributed munitions throughout the region. Additionally, he threatened the local population through the extortion of food and money in the Musa Qal’ah district. Two insurgents were killed after firing at the security force, in response to the threat, the security force returned fire killing both armed individuals. The security force detained four additional suspected insurgents during the operation.
In Maiwand district, Kandahar province, yesterday, a combined Afghan and coalition force discovered and seized a drug cache consisting of 165 pounds (75 kilograms) of hashish. All the drugs were destroyed by security forces.
East
A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed an armed Taliban leader during an operation in Muhammad Aghah district, Logar province. The leader planned vehicle bomb attacks in the Muhammad Aghah district, as well as, financially supporting and managing insurgent fighters. During the operation the security force was engaged by an armed individual, and responding to the immediate threat the force returned fire killing the insurgent leader. Multiple weapons including AK-47 assault rifles and fragment grenades were confiscated and one suspected insurgent was detained during the operation.
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
For Immediate Release
KABUL, Afghanistan (Oct. 6, 2011) — In Jani Khel district, Paktika province, a combined Afghan and coalition security force killed three insurgents during an operation in search of a Haqqani network leader.
The leader distributes weapons, ammunition, and roadside bombs to other insurgent leaders throughout region for use in attacks against Afghan forces.
At the onset of the operations, the security force was engaged by rocket-propelled grenade, machine gun and small arms fire, responding to the immediate threat the security force returned fire, killing three and wounding one insurgent.
Additionally, one local national female was killed and a local national female was wounded during the operation. Both the females were located inside of the building from which the insurgents were firing at the security force.
Both wounded individuals were transported by the coalition force and are being medically cared for at this time. A local leader engagement will be held with the deputy governor to discuss the incident.
Multiple weapons were confiscated to include a PKM machine gun with 500 rounds, as well as, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher with multiple rocket-propelled grenades.
Three suspected insurgents were detained during the operation.
In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:
South
A combined Afghan and coalition security force captured a Taliban leader during a security operation in Kandahar district, Kandahar province. The leader was responsible for abductions in the area, as well as, the movement of foreign fighters into Afghanistan. No civilians were injured during the operation.
A Taliban leader was captured and two insurgents were killed by a combined Afghan and coalition security force during an operation in Musa Qal’ah district, Helmand province. The leader operated a roadside bomb factory, as well as, distributed munitions throughout the region. Additionally, he threatened the local population through the extortion of food and money in the Musa Qal’ah district. Two insurgents were killed after firing at the security force, in response to the threat, the security force returned fire killing both armed individuals. The security force detained four additional suspected insurgents during the operation.
In Maiwand district, Kandahar province, yesterday, a combined Afghan and coalition force discovered and seized a drug cache consisting of 165 pounds (75 kilograms) of hashish. All the drugs were destroyed by security forces.
East
A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed an armed Taliban leader during an operation in Muhammad Aghah district, Logar province. The leader planned vehicle bomb attacks in the Muhammad Aghah district, as well as, financially supporting and managing insurgent fighters. During the operation the security force was engaged by an armed individual, and responding to the immediate threat the force returned fire killing the insurgent leader. Multiple weapons including AK-47 assault rifles and fragment grenades were confiscated and one suspected insurgent was detained during the operation.
Four-day operation in Zharay district nets large cache finds, insurgents killed
KANDAHAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan – A four-day operation conducted jointly with Afghan security forces and Soldiers with Combined Task Force Spartan, in Kandalay in eastern Zharay district, resulted in killing multiple insurgents, detaining several suspected insurgents, and three large weapons and explosive caches discovered.
The operation, which started Sept. 25, initially began when Afghan security and coalition forces Soldiers discovered a cache of homemade explosive material at a compound, and also detained the men occupying the compound, one of whom is a known Taliban leader and direct subordinate to a Taliban leader responsible for insurgent operations in eastern Zharay district.
Afghan soldiers also found several “night letters” distributed to houses in Kandalay, renouncing villagers who joined the local community-based security organization. The soldiers immediately started distributing letters to counteract those distributed by insurgents.
Night letters are letters distributed by insurgents, usually under the cover of darkness, to intimidate a local population from assisting or working with Afghan security or coalition forces.
The next day, village leaders and elders from Kandalay held an emergency shura to discuss the community-based security program. Also, Soldiers from CTF Spartan’s 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, scheduled an education shura with the headmaster of the Pir Mohammad School and other key influencers from Kandalay and Senjaray.
Part of the operation’s success was due to Reconnaissance Soldiers from 2-87 who were placed in key positions in eastern Zharay district. The team engaged several insurgents with mortars and TOW missiles, killing at least five insurgents.
On day three of the operation, the joint element cleared enemy compounds in the neighboring village of Kalacha, and found a homemade explosives lab and several small weapons caches. Local officials recognizing the improved security due to ongoing operations, officially opened a school in Habib in Zharay district, where 30 schoolchildren attended on the first day of school.
On the last day, Afghan security and coalition forces Soldiers breached and cleared into known enemy bed-down locations, as well as interdicting a cache consisting of 150 pounds of homemade explosive material, two complete pressure-plate IEDs, 500 pounds of hashish, and two 82mm recoilless rifle rounds.
When the joint element tallied the results from the 96-hour long operation, the net total was two complete pressure-plate IEDs, nine hand grenade fuses and grenades, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, several expended large shell casings, two 82mm recoilless rifle rounds, five jugs of homemade explosive material, and a British Enfield Mark 4 rifle.
[SOURCE]
The operation, which started Sept. 25, initially began when Afghan security and coalition forces Soldiers discovered a cache of homemade explosive material at a compound, and also detained the men occupying the compound, one of whom is a known Taliban leader and direct subordinate to a Taliban leader responsible for insurgent operations in eastern Zharay district.
Afghan soldiers also found several “night letters” distributed to houses in Kandalay, renouncing villagers who joined the local community-based security organization. The soldiers immediately started distributing letters to counteract those distributed by insurgents.
Night letters are letters distributed by insurgents, usually under the cover of darkness, to intimidate a local population from assisting or working with Afghan security or coalition forces.
The next day, village leaders and elders from Kandalay held an emergency shura to discuss the community-based security program. Also, Soldiers from CTF Spartan’s 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, scheduled an education shura with the headmaster of the Pir Mohammad School and other key influencers from Kandalay and Senjaray.
Part of the operation’s success was due to Reconnaissance Soldiers from 2-87 who were placed in key positions in eastern Zharay district. The team engaged several insurgents with mortars and TOW missiles, killing at least five insurgents.
On day three of the operation, the joint element cleared enemy compounds in the neighboring village of Kalacha, and found a homemade explosives lab and several small weapons caches. Local officials recognizing the improved security due to ongoing operations, officially opened a school in Habib in Zharay district, where 30 schoolchildren attended on the first day of school.
On the last day, Afghan security and coalition forces Soldiers breached and cleared into known enemy bed-down locations, as well as interdicting a cache consisting of 150 pounds of homemade explosive material, two complete pressure-plate IEDs, 500 pounds of hashish, and two 82mm recoilless rifle rounds.
When the joint element tallied the results from the 96-hour long operation, the net total was two complete pressure-plate IEDs, nine hand grenade fuses and grenades, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, several expended large shell casings, two 82mm recoilless rifle rounds, five jugs of homemade explosive material, and a British Enfield Mark 4 rifle.
[SOURCE]
October 4, 2011
ISAF Joint Command morning operational update, Oct. 4, 2011
2011-10-S-007
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
For Immediate Release
KABUL, Afghanistan (Oct. 4, 2011) — A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed a Taliban leader during a security operation in Maidan Shahr district, Wardak province.
The leader, Saifullah Rashid, led and participated in numerous attacks against Afghan forces in the Maidan Shahr district.
During the operation, the security force was fired upon by an armed individual. Responding to the immediate threat the security force returned fire killing the individual, later identified as Rashid.
The security force also detained multiple suspected insurgents during the operation.
In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:
South
A coalition security force discovered a weapons cache in Qalat district, Zabul province, yesterday. Weapons included two AK-47s, seven rocket propelled grenade rounds and more than 3,000 rounds of ammunition. The weapons were seized by the security force for safe disposal at a later date.
In Tarnek wa Jaldak district, Zabul province, a combined Afghan and coalition security force captured a Taliban leader during a security operation. The leader reported to senior Taliban facilitators on the movements of Afghan forces and provided reports on attacks against forces in the region.
East
A combined Afghan and coalition security force detained multiple suspected insurgents during an operation in search of a Taliban leader in Mehtar Lam district, Laghman province. The leader is involved in executions and ambushes, as well as, the intimidation of the local populace in Mehtar Lam district.
In Sabari district, Khost province, a combined Afghan and coalition security force detained two suspected insurgents during an operation in search of a Haqqani network leader. The leader orders remote-controlled bomb and assassination attacks against Afghan forces.
Correction: Haji Mali Khan was not captured in Jani Khel district, Paktiya province, as previously reported in IJC News Release # 2011-10-S-002. He was captured in Musa Khel district, Khost province.
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
For Immediate Release
KABUL, Afghanistan (Oct. 4, 2011) — A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed a Taliban leader during a security operation in Maidan Shahr district, Wardak province.
The leader, Saifullah Rashid, led and participated in numerous attacks against Afghan forces in the Maidan Shahr district.
During the operation, the security force was fired upon by an armed individual. Responding to the immediate threat the security force returned fire killing the individual, later identified as Rashid.
The security force also detained multiple suspected insurgents during the operation.
In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan:
South
A coalition security force discovered a weapons cache in Qalat district, Zabul province, yesterday. Weapons included two AK-47s, seven rocket propelled grenade rounds and more than 3,000 rounds of ammunition. The weapons were seized by the security force for safe disposal at a later date.
In Tarnek wa Jaldak district, Zabul province, a combined Afghan and coalition security force captured a Taliban leader during a security operation. The leader reported to senior Taliban facilitators on the movements of Afghan forces and provided reports on attacks against forces in the region.
East
A combined Afghan and coalition security force detained multiple suspected insurgents during an operation in search of a Taliban leader in Mehtar Lam district, Laghman province. The leader is involved in executions and ambushes, as well as, the intimidation of the local populace in Mehtar Lam district.
In Sabari district, Khost province, a combined Afghan and coalition security force detained two suspected insurgents during an operation in search of a Haqqani network leader. The leader orders remote-controlled bomb and assassination attacks against Afghan forces.
Correction: Haji Mali Khan was not captured in Jani Khel district, Paktiya province, as previously reported in IJC News Release # 2011-10-S-002. He was captured in Musa Khel district, Khost province.
ISAF press briefing, Oct. 4, 2011
By ISAF Headquarters Public Affairs
KABUL, Afghanistan (Oct. 4, 2011) – Together with the support of coalition and international communities, the people of Afghanistan will mark their 10th year of a new path Oct. 7: a new rule of Afghanistan.
“Afghans themselves along with hundreds of thousands of international communities have created a more stable Afghanistan,” said the International Security Assistance Force spokesperson, German Brigadier General Carsten Jacobson. “To everyone who has made a contribution, I would like to say ‘thank you’ on behalf of ISAF.”
Over the past 10 years, Afghanistan has made remarkable progress in shaking off the rule of the Taliban to enter a new era of economic and technological progress and development to include:
• More than 7 million students are in schools across Afghanistan, one third of them girls.
• 50 percent of Afghans have televisions, compared with almost none in 2001
• Afghans can watch 75 television stations and listen to 175 radio stations
• An estimated 60% of Afghans have cell phones
“The takeaway here is, today’s Afghanistan is expanding its knowledge, creating its national thinkers and leaders of tomorrow,” said Jacobson. “It is better connected inside and outside its borders.”
In addition, the Afghan National Security Forces are growing and becoming better equipped to ensure the safety of the Afghan people.
The Afghan National Army is about 170,000 strong and the Afghan National Police is 135,000 strong. They are prepared to keep this nation secure with quality equipment, vehicles and aircraft; accompanied by professional training that continues to increase their level of skill and ability.
“Afghan forces are providing lead security for up to a quarter of the Afghan population,” said Dominic Medley, NATO Civilian Spokesman. “They have continued to take the lead responsibility for security in Afghanistan and transition is on track to be completed in 2014.”
Together with their coalition partners, the Afghan National Security Forces are making notable progress in securing this nation.
“We noted this past week that from June through August 2011, enemy-initiated attacks were 17 percent lower than the same period in 2010,” said Australian Army Maj. Gen. Michael Krause, Deputy Chief of Staff Plans, at ISAF Joint Command. “It’s also noted that for the period January through August 2011, complex and coordinated attacks by insurgents were 29 percent lower than the same period in 2010.
These examples provide tangible evidence that conditions are indeed improving, and together with the people of Afghanistan ISAF will continue to support their movement toward new security and prosperity.
“NATO will not leave Afghanistan to fall back into the hands of extremists and terrorists,” Medley said. “We will not leave Afghanistan behind; we’ll stay committed, with a focus to train and educate Afghan security forces.”
(SOURCE)
KABUL, Afghanistan (Oct. 4, 2011) – Together with the support of coalition and international communities, the people of Afghanistan will mark their 10th year of a new path Oct. 7: a new rule of Afghanistan.
“Afghans themselves along with hundreds of thousands of international communities have created a more stable Afghanistan,” said the International Security Assistance Force spokesperson, German Brigadier General Carsten Jacobson. “To everyone who has made a contribution, I would like to say ‘thank you’ on behalf of ISAF.”
Over the past 10 years, Afghanistan has made remarkable progress in shaking off the rule of the Taliban to enter a new era of economic and technological progress and development to include:
• More than 7 million students are in schools across Afghanistan, one third of them girls.
• 50 percent of Afghans have televisions, compared with almost none in 2001
• Afghans can watch 75 television stations and listen to 175 radio stations
• An estimated 60% of Afghans have cell phones
“The takeaway here is, today’s Afghanistan is expanding its knowledge, creating its national thinkers and leaders of tomorrow,” said Jacobson. “It is better connected inside and outside its borders.”
In addition, the Afghan National Security Forces are growing and becoming better equipped to ensure the safety of the Afghan people.
The Afghan National Army is about 170,000 strong and the Afghan National Police is 135,000 strong. They are prepared to keep this nation secure with quality equipment, vehicles and aircraft; accompanied by professional training that continues to increase their level of skill and ability.
“Afghan forces are providing lead security for up to a quarter of the Afghan population,” said Dominic Medley, NATO Civilian Spokesman. “They have continued to take the lead responsibility for security in Afghanistan and transition is on track to be completed in 2014.”
Together with their coalition partners, the Afghan National Security Forces are making notable progress in securing this nation.
“We noted this past week that from June through August 2011, enemy-initiated attacks were 17 percent lower than the same period in 2010,” said Australian Army Maj. Gen. Michael Krause, Deputy Chief of Staff Plans, at ISAF Joint Command. “It’s also noted that for the period January through August 2011, complex and coordinated attacks by insurgents were 29 percent lower than the same period in 2010.
These examples provide tangible evidence that conditions are indeed improving, and together with the people of Afghanistan ISAF will continue to support their movement toward new security and prosperity.
“NATO will not leave Afghanistan to fall back into the hands of extremists and terrorists,” Medley said. “We will not leave Afghanistan behind; we’ll stay committed, with a focus to train and educate Afghan security forces.”
(SOURCE)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)