ANP and Coalition forces target foreign fighter network in Khost

Release Number: 20091001-01

January 10, 2009 

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan and Coalition forces detained eight suspected militants, including the targeted Haqqani militant and Taliban financier, during operations in Khost and Kandahar provinces, Friday.

Afghan National Police and Coalition forces detained three militants in the first operation, including the wanted Haqqani militant.  In Sabari District, approximately 140 km southeast of Kabul City, the combined force targeted the Haqqani foreign fighter network, netting a militant known to coordinate and facilitate the movement of Arab fighters into the region.  The militant is also believed to be in contact with senior Haqqani leaders, planning attacks against innocent Afghan civilians and Coalition forces.

The combined force searched the building without incident, and protected two women and five children during the combined operation.

In Kandahar City, Coalition forces detained five suspected militants, including the targeted Taliban financier, during an operation to disrupt the organizations ability to fund terrorist activities.  Believed to aid the militant organization through funding and other support, the detained financier is assessed to have direct ties to numerous Taliban commanders in the region.

“These intelligence driven missions with combined Afghan and Coalition forces are excellent examples of the cooperation needed to defeat Afghanistan’s enemies,” said Zemarai Bashary, Ministry of Interior spokesperson.