FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 1, 2008                                                                                          

Release Number 20080112-01

Coalition forces track down terrorist networks in Paktia

KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces detained six suspected militants while continuing to target Haqqani terrorist networks in Paktia, Sunday.

The operation in Zadran district, located 135 km south of Kabul and the second operation in as many days, targeted a known Haqqani militant believed to be in the direct contact with senior Haqqani leaders and to coordinate and direct terrorist activities aimed at destabilizing the region.  Coalition forces searched the compound without incident, while protecting five women and six children, and detaining six suspected militants.

“The success of each operation not only motivates continued efforts to thwart terrorism,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman. “It sends a message of improved security for the Afghan people.”

-30-

United States Forces Afghanistan’s mission, in coordination with NATO’s International Security Assistance Force, is to conduct operations to defeat terrorist networks and insurgents by developing effective governance and building the Afghan National Security Force.  Effective security throughout the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan facilitates continued regional stability and increases economic development for the people of Afghanistan.

Contact Information – US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs Office

Tel +93 (0) 799 51 2919 or cell phone 0093 (0) 788 189 049

This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it