ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
2011-07-S-066
For Immediate Release

In Musa Qalah district, Helmand province, a combined security operation led to the detention of several suspected insurgents during a search for a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader is a senior operative in Sangin district, responsible for coordinating roadside bomb attacks and providing military guidance for attack planning.

While conducting the search, the security force was approached by an individual displaying hostile intent. The individual was carrying what was believed to be a grenade, prompting the force to fire at him after they identified an imminent threat. He died as a result. After conducting an initial assessment, the security force discovered the individual was an unarmed local national.

Additionally, two local females received minor leg wounds during the operation. They were both treated on-site and transported by the security force to a medical facility for routine follow-up care.The security force also detained several suspected Taliban insurgents for questioning and confiscated 50 pounds (23 kgs) of opium.