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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 9, 2009

Release Number 20090902-01

Afghan National Police-led force kills suspected mid-level Taliban commander in Helmand

KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan National Police assisted by Coalition Forces killed one militant and detained four others in Washir District, Helmand province Saturday.

The ANP-led force was conducting a search operation on a suspected mid-level Taliban commander's compound. As the combined force approached the compound, the suspect exited the compound and took up a fighting position in a nearby valley, engaging the ANP with small-arms fire. The combined force responded with small-arms fire, and killed the armed militant.

He is suspected of being a key mid-level Taliban commander, responsible for several attacks against Afghan National Security Forces and employing improvised explosive devices (IEDs). He is also suspected of providing housing, intelligence and guidance for suicide bombers planning operations in this area.

ANP also recovered multiple IED making materials inside the compound.

There were no reports or evidence of civilian casualties during the 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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