Press Release
United States Forces-Afghanistan
March 17, 2009
Release Number 20091703-01
Seven militants killed, three detained in Kandahar Province
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan and Coalition Forces killed seven Taliban militants and detained three suspected militants during operations March 17 to disrupt an improvised explosive device-making cell responsible for targeting Afghan civilians and Coalition Forces in Kandahar Province.
In Khakriz District, Kandahar Province, approximately 40 km north of Kandahar, the combined assault force raided a compound that housed IED facilitators. When the force arrived at the intended target, two armed militants engaged the force with grenades. Both militants were killed in the ensuing firefight. One female non-combatant sustained a non-life-threatening injury and was treated by medical personnel on site. Determining additional treatment was needed, forces arranged for her evacuation to a Coalition hospital.
Several militants who had fled the compound were pursued by the assault force. Armed with grenades or assault rifles, five militants were killed when they maneuvered on the force. Three suspected militants were detained near the compound.
A search of the target revealed multiple rocket-propelled grenades and approximately 500 lbs (230 kg) of potential explosive material. Forces destroyed the building housing the explosive material along with the RPGs.
The female non-combatant is currently listed in stable condition at a Coalition hospital. Respecting cultural sensitivities, a male relative accompanied her and will remain with her while she receives treatment.
Four other women and 18 children were protected.
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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
Primary: Tel +93 (0) 799 51 2919
Alternate: Tel +93 (0) 707 355 965
USFOR-A-MediaRelations@afghan.swa.army.mil