FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 6, 2008
Release Number 20080612-01
Coalition forces maintain pressure on terrorist network in Paktika
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed two armed militants and detained five suspected militants during an operation targeting the Taliban terrorist network in Paktika province Friday.
Coalition forces searched a compound in Ziruk (Zerok) District, located approximately 150 km south of Kabul, targeting a local Taliban commander suspected of foreign fighter and weapons facilitation. Intelligence suggests the commander is also responsible for coordinating and directing roadside bomb, suicide, and other attacks against innocent civilians, GIRoA and Coalition forces in effort to destabilize the region.
During the operation, Coalition forces encountered two militants who attempted to engage the force. Coalition forces responded with small-arms fire and killed them.
“Every successful disruption of terrorist networks sends a message that Coalition forces will continue to pursue the enemies of the innocent,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman. “Security of the Afghan people is our priority.
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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
USFOR-A-MediaRelations@afghan.swa.army.mil