Insurgent Killed, Several Detained in Helmand
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan 2010-08-CA-210  For Immediate Release Download PDF    KABUL, Afghanistan (Aug. 18) - An Afghan and coalition security force killed a Taliban insurgent and detained several suspected insurgents in Helmand province Tuesday while in pursuit of a Taliban commander.   The commander profits from the trafficking of weapons, money, equipment and improvised explosive device components for a Pakistani-based network. The network operates in the Band-e Teymur area of Maiwand district, Kandahar province. The Taliban commander and his fighters also conduct attacks along Afghanistan's only major commercial highway, Highway 1, which runs through Lashkar Gah and Maiwand districts and is the main route used by civilians. 
The joint security force entered a compound in the village of Jowman in Lashkar Gah district in pursuit of the commander. The Afghan force used a loudspeaker to call for all occupants to peacefully exit. After questioning the residents, the security force detained seven suspected insurgents for further questioning. During the subsequent search, the security force found a large amount of cannabis plants surrounding the compound and large piles of dried poppies. As the security force departed the area, an armed insurgent was identified in the wood line maneuvering on the departing force and showing hostile intent. The security force engaged and killed the insurgent.   "The Taliban profit from the manufacturing and trafficking of weapons and IED components, which kill and wound innocent Afghan civilians," said U.S. Army Col. Rafael Torres, International Security Assistance Force Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director. "The Taliban do not care who their customers are and who are affected when instructed by their leaders hiding in Pakistan to conduct these attacks. Afghan and coalition forces will continue to pursue those who harm the Afghan people and stand in the way of peace and security in Afghanistan." The security force protected the women and children for the duration of the search.