Taliban Explosive Device Leader Captured in Kandahar

KABUL, Afghanistan (May 1) – While conducting a security operation in Zharay district, Kandahar province April 28, a combined Afghan and coalition security force discovered more than 225 electric blasting caps which are used to initiate explosives. (Defense Department photo)
 ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan 2011-05-S-002 For Immediate Release  KABUL, Afghanistan (May 1, 2011) Yesterday, the combined force also detained an explosive device expert and several of his associates and found numerous homemade bomb materials, including 225 blasting caps.  Blasting caps are small devices generally used to detonate larger, more powerful explosives, such as dynamite, TNT or plastic explosives used for homemade bombs.  Besides the discovery of the blasting caps, the force discovered more than 1,100 pounds (498 kilograms) of ammonium nitrate, as well as transmitters and receivers while conducting missions in Kandahar.  Targeting and capturing these two leaders who specialize in explosive device attacks is part of an Afghan and coalition force effort to create more freedom of movement for the local citizens living within the province.