PRESS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES FORCES AFGHANISTAN Kabul, Afghanistan Phone: [phone]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 1, 2009

Release Number 20090102-01

Coalition Forces maintain pressure on terrorist networks

KABUL, Afghanistan - Coalition Forces killed two militants and detained nine suspects during military operations targeting the Taliban and Haqqani terrorist networks in eastern and southern Afghanistan, Saturday.

In Ghazni Province, Coalition Forces searched a compound near Daya Kheyl, located approximately 180 km southwest of Kabul, for an individual known to facilitate mines, weapons and money in southern Ghazni as well as having strong ties to the Haqqani terrorist network.

Upon arrival at the intended compound, Coalition Forces called out for the inhabitants to exit all buildings. In one building several persons barricaded themselves inside. After repeated instructions were given and other women and children exited the buildings, Coalition Forces proceeded with a forced entry and killed two militants. A third person inside the building, a non-combatant, received a minor injury. The person was treated by medical personnel on site, and given compensation for any potential follow-on treatment that may be required. Three suspected militants were detained, while protecting 15 women and 25 children during the operation.

In Khowst, Coalition Forces detained six suspected militants during operations conducted to apprehend a leader of a Sabari-based IED cell also linked to the Haqqani terrorist network.

When Coalition Forces arrived at the compound, they called out for civilians to exit the buildings and all cooperated. The willingness of the civilians to follow the Coalition Forces' instructions facilitated a smooth process resulting in no shots fired, no persons injured and no property damaged. Six women and 16 children were protected during this operation.

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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.

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Afghanistan

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