name: Forces Target Haqqani Commander Planning Election Attacks
text: Forces Target Haqqani Commander Planning Election Attacks
  ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan 2010-09-CA-203  For Immediate Release Download PDF  KABUL, Afghanistan (Sept. 19) - Coalition aircraft targeted a Haqqani Network sub-commander who was preparing to conduct improvised explosive device attacks against the Afghan people during Saturday's election in Paktiya province.  "The insurgents threatened to carry out spectacular attacks during the elections yesterday, however, they failed. Afghan forces, with their coalition partners, disrupted the insurgent's plans and tightened security throughout the country," said U.S. Army Col. Rafael Torres, International Security Assistance Force Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director. "We're happy that the Afghan people were afforded an opportunity vote and make their choices known."  Afghan and coalition security forces conducted more than 15 operations in seven Afghan provinces prior to and during yesterday's elections.  Afghan-led operations resulted with seven insurgent leaders captured and at least four killed, all actively planning attacks against the elections. Acting on intelligence tips, coalition forces tracked the commander and several of his associates to a remote area in Sayyid Karam district.  After identifying insurgent activity and careful planning to ensure no civilians were present, coalition aircraft engaged the insurgents.  Although a ground force was unable to conduct an immediate assessment of the engagement area, coalition aircraft confirmed three insurgents were killed. They also positively identified a rocket-propelled grenade launcher with rounds and an automatic weapon.