Good News From The War On Terror 2/19-20
Coalition targets al-Qaeda in Iraq networks, six suspects detained
BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces detained six suspected terrorists today during operations to disrupt al-Qaeda operating in central and northern Iraq.
During an operation in Baghdad, Coalition forces captured an alleged associate of the senior al-Qaeda in Iraq leader responsible for providing operational direction to all of the networks in Baghdad, to include the cells responsible for suicide and car bombing attacks. The suspect reportedly facilitates transportation for senior terrorist leadership operating throughout the area.
Southeast of Samarra, Coalition forces detained two suspected terrorists to include an alleged leader of the al-Qaeda in Iraq network in Jalam associated with kidnappings and the facilitation of money for terrorist operations. Reports indicate the suspect arranges meetings between senior level terrorist leaders from networks along the Tigris River Valley to discuss AQI operations.
An additional two suspects were detained during an operation in Mosul while targeting an alleged senior leader for the AQI networks in northern Iraq.
UPDATE: Coalition forces positively identify terrorist killed in operation Sunday
BAGHDAD – A terrorist killed during an operation Sunday has been positively identified as Abu Karrar.
Karrar, also known as Arkan Khalaf Khudayyir, was a senior intelligence leader involved in the al-Qaeda in Iraq network in Baqouba. He was also a terrorist facilitator for the suicide bombing network in the Diyala River Valley region, which conducts attacks in Baghdad, to include attacks by female suicide bombers. Reports indicate the network has been disrupted by recent successful Coalition operations in the area.
Karrar was killed when Coalition forces conducted an operation near Khan Bani Sad Sunday afternoon. As Coalition forces arrived in the target area, they observed Karrar and another suspect fleeing their vehicle. Karrar brandished a weapon with the perceived intent to fire on Coalition forces. The assault force engaged, killing both men. Coalition forces discovered an AK-47 and ammunition in the vehicle, and they destroyed the vehicle to prevent further use for terrorist activity.
Coalition forces disrupt Taliban support networks in Zabul
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Seven suspected insurgents were detained Feb.17 during a joint Afghan and Coalition forces operation to disrupt Taliban support networks in Zabul Province.
The joint force searched compounds in Qalat District targeting an insurgent acting as a weapons, equipment and supply conduit for Taliban fighters.
While conducting their search, Afghan and Coalition forces found and detained seven individuals, including the targeted insurgent, with suspected links to insurgent networks. The detained individuals will be questioned on their involvement in Taliban operations as well as other illegal activities.
The targeted insurgent was wounded by small-arms fire when he presented a credible threat to Coalition forces. The suspected insurgent was taken to a medical facility for treatment.
11 suspected insurgents detained in Zabul Province
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Eleven suspected insurgents were detained Feb. 19 during a combined Afghan National Security and Coalition forces operation to disrupt Taliban leadership networks in Zabul Province.
The combined force searched compounds in the Dey Chopan District targeting a Taliban leader responsible for several attacks against Coalition forces. The individual also allegedly facilitated weapons and financial support to Taliban fighters.
The joint force employed accurate, aerial-delivered conventional munitions to suppress several suspected insurgents during the search. There were no indications of deaths or injuries as a result of the engagement.
Afghan and Coalition forces found and detained 11 individuals with suspected links to the targeted Taliban leader. The detained individuals will be questioned on their involvement in Taliban operations as well as other illegal activities.
ANSF secure remote villages in Helmand Province
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - The 1st Company of 201st Commando Kandak, Afghan National Army, accompanied by Coalition forces, detained 11 suspected insurgents, found 1,000 lbs of heroin, and destroyed a large weapons cache in Helmand Province Feb. 20.
The 201st Commandos conducted operations to establish security, disrupt insurgent activity and deny enemy sanctuary, north of the city of Musa Qaleh.
ANSF cleared a compound of known Taliban members. While clearing the compound, the elite unit discovered the heroin and an opium processing lab. The Taliban use the monetary proceeds from the sale of heroin to fund their insurgency.
Coalition aircraft observed insurgents emplacing IED’s and establishing defensive positions. Coalition aircraft moved in to investigate the suspected sites and were fired upon by enemy combatants. The Coalition aircraft responded with precision fires and eliminated the enemy positions. The combined force also destroyed a large weapons cache.
The success of this mission confirms the resolve and ability of the ANSF to rid Afghanistan of insurgents.
