Joint Operation Targets Smuggling Routes
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan 2011-01-S-188 For Immediate Release Download PDF    KABUL, Afghanistan (Jan. 17, 2011) — An Afghan National Security and International Security Assistance Force vehicle-interdiction mission targeted insurgent smuggling routes in Kandahar and Helmand provinces yesterday.  Multiple intelligence reports led the joint force towards a vehicle thought to be used by insurgents to smuggle material, narcotics and weapons around the area. As they moved to stop and search the vehicle, the vehicle stopped and three occupants exited and attempted to run away. As the combined force secured the vehicle and moved to clear the surrounding area, they were fired upon by two of the men. After gaining positive identification, the security force returned fire, killing the suspected insurgents.  As the third man took an elevated firing position and attempted to fire on the security force, he was engaged by an air weapons team and killed.  The security force subsequently searched the targeted vehicle and found two rocket-propelled grenade launchers, one machine gun and 5,000 7.62 mm rounds.  The weapons were safely destroyed on site. Initial reports indicate no civilians were injured during the operation.