KABUL, Afghanistan (Dec. 25) — A combined Afghan and coalition security force conducted an operation in search of a Taliban leader in Baghlan-e Jadid district, Baghlan province, today.  The leader trains insurgents to use roadside bombs and provides explosives for use in attacks against Afghan forces.

During the operation, two insurgents displayed hostile intent towards the security force. Assessing an immediate threat, the security force engaged, killing the insurgents.

A third insurgent died after self-detonating a grenade. Bomb making material and weapons to include grenades were confiscated and multiple suspected insurgents were detained during the operation.