ISAF Joint Command Morning Operational Update May 24, 2011

ISAF Joint Command- Afghanistan 2011-05-S-084  For Immediate Release   KABUL, Afghanistan (May 24, 2011) – A combined Afghan and coalition security force conducted a security operation resulting in two suspected insurgents detained and one Afghan civilian killed in Musa Qal’ah district, Helmand province yesterday.   The security force was searching for a Taliban facilitator. While searching the area, the force noticed an individual fleeing the area. They pursued the individual and located him at a nearby wood line. An Afghan member of the force called for the individual to exit the wood line. The individual then began to move directly toward the security force despite their instructions and warnings which were relayed in multiple ethnic languages. This series of callouts was ineffective in allowing the security force to detain the individual peacefully.   While holding an object in his hand, he continued to move toward the force displaying hostile intent. Native speaking members of the security force continued to direct the individual to comply. Ignoring their request, the individual proceeded to raise the object in his hand toward the force. As a security force measure, the force engaged the individual to eliminate the threat. He was killed as a result of the engagement. After initial assessment it was discovered the individual had a flashlight in his hand.   The initial operation was conducted to target a Taliban facilitator in the district.   The targeted facilitator moves home-made explosives and weapons throughout northern Helmand. He acquires the necessary components for home-made explosive production and then coordinates the shipment to various Taliban leaders and sub-commanders throughout the province. As a result of the search, two suspected insurgents were detained for further questioning.