Press Release

United States Forces-Afghanistan

December 9, 2008                                                               

Release Number 20080912-01

ANP, Coalition forces disrupt Haqqani terrorist network in Khost

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan National Police and Coalition forces detained nine suspected militants during a combined operation to disrupt the Haqqani terrorist network in Khost province, Monday.

The combined operation in Khost District, approximately 150 km southeast of Kabul, targeted a Haqqani commander known to direct and assist with the movement of weapons and foreign fighters into the region.  The known Haqqani commander is also assessed to plan and coordinate attacks against innocent civilians, GIRoA officials and Coalition forces.

“Afghan National Police and Coalition forces will continue to target weapon runners and foreign fighters” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman.  “Eliminating these militant operations is a key focus for the combined forces.”

During the operation, the combined force encountered an armed militant who refused to comply with their instructions and displayed hostile intent.  The force engaged the militant with small-arms fire and wounded him.  Medical personnel on the site administered immediate care and evacuated the militant to a medical treatment facility for further care.  Once released from the medical treatment facility, the militant will be detained for his involvement.

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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

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