Three Suspected Insurgents Detained by Afghan-Led Security Force in Helmand

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan 2010-07-CA-220  For Immediate Release

 KABUL, Afghanistan (July 30) - An Afghan and coalition security force detained three suspected insurgents in Helmand province last night while in pursuit of a senior Taliban tactical commander who regularly conducts kidnappings and intimidation campaigns against innocent Afghan civilians.   He is also known to direct improvised explosive device (IED) attacks against Afghan civilians and Afghan and coalition forces. The security force targeted a compound in rural Nad 'Ali district to search for the commander. Afghan forces called for all residents to peacefully exit the compound, but two men tried to escape the combined force. They were immediately detained by the security force and the area was secured. A total of three suspected insurgents were detained for further questioning.   No shots were fired and the women and children were protected throughout the search.   "Taliban commanders enter villages and bully Afghan civilians into submitting to their oppressive rule," said Col. Rafael Torres, ISAF Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director. "Our joint forces will continue to pursue those who reign by violence and establish opportunity and stability for the Afghan people."