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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 29, 2009

Release Number 20092901-01

Coalition Forces target IED cell in Zabol Province

KABUL, Afghanistan - Coalition Forces killed four armed militants during operations to disrupt the Taliban network in Zabol (Zabul) Province, Wednesday.

In Tarnak Wa Jaldak District, approximately 90 km northeast of Kandahar City, Coalition Forces targeted a known Taliban leader and explosives expert. Upon receiving small-arms fire, Coalition Forces returned fire and killed all four armed militants who were maneuvering against them.

During the operation, three women and eight children were protected.

A search of the compound revealed multiple AK-47s and other weapons. Coalition Forces removed the weapons and destroyed them at a safe distance from the compound to prevent future use.

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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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