2012-09-S-045
For Immediate Release


KABUL, Afghanistan (Sept. 30, 2012) — Today, Afghan and coalition forces confirmed the death of Asad, an al-Qaida associated Taliban leader, following an operation in Darah-ye Pech district, Kunar province, Friday.

Asad was a Marawara-based Taliban leader also affiliated with the Tehrik-Nefaz-i-Shariat-Muhammadi, a Pakistani militant group and known supporter of the Afghan Taliban. Asad engaged in numerous attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and was believed to be planning additional strikes in the days leading up to his death.

Prior to the attack, the security force positively identified Asad and several armed militants engaging in insurgent activity. After confirming the imminent threat, the security force conducted a precision air strike, killing Asad and two additional insurgents.

A post-strike assessment determined no civilians were harmed or property damaged as a result of the operation.