ISAF Joint Command Morning Operational Update May 21, 2011
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan 2011-05-S-076 For Immediate Release  KABUL, Afghanistan (May 21, 2011) – A combined Afghan and coalition security force killed a Taliban leader by the name of Alawuddin in Talah wa Barfak district, Baghlan province yesterday.  Alawuddin worked with groups of Taliban fighters to attack Afghan National Police and coalition forces to regain terrain lost by the Taliban. He also directly participated in numerous attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.  After tracking the leader throughout the day, the combined security force targeted his compound in the district. The force isolated his compound and an Afghan soldier called all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully and were able to secure the safety of 13 women and 14 children. Alawuddin, armed with an AK-47, attacked an Afghan member of the security force. Alawuddin was killed as an Afghan soldier identified the hostile threat and engaged him.  During the search, two of his associates were also detained for further questioning.  Afghan and coalition forces have placed a priority on Taliban operations in Baghlan province in recent months. Combined security forces have been able to capture or kill more than 100 Taliban leaders and insurgents in the province since March of last year.