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2012-09-S-020
For Immediate Release
 
 
KABUL, Afghanistan (Sept. 15, 2012) — Afghan and coalition forces confirmed yesterday the death of an al-Qaida weapons expert during a security operation in Mata Khan district, Paktika province, Wednesday.
During the operation the security force positively identified Taqwa – also known as Eissa Khan – transporting weapons toward a populated area. After ensuring no civilians were in the vicinity, the security force engaged Taqwa with a precision airstrike, killing him.
As an al-Qaida weapons expert, Taqwa is suspected of directing multiple attacks against Afghan and coalition forces, often using improvised explosive devices, and equipping insurgent and terrorist fighters with weapons, ammunition and explosives.
Prior to his death, Taqwa was believed to be planning the abduction of several Afghan security force members. 
A post-strike assessment determined no civilian property was damaged and no civilians were harmed.