Haqqani leader detained in Paktya
ISAF Joint Command- Afghanistan
2011-07-S-015
For Immediate Release                      

KABUL, Afghanistan (July 6, 2011) – A combined Afghan and coalition security force detained a Haqqani network leader during an overnight operation in Zurmat district, Paktiya province, yesterday. 

The Afghan-led force located the leader, who is responsible for the deaths of three International Security Assistance Force service members killed in a roadside bomb attack yesterday. Several of his associates were also detained at the compound in the district. The force detained the insurgent and his associates for further questioning, and safely destroyed several roadside bomb components, grenades and a chest rack in their possession. 

The Haqqani network operates primarily in Khost, Paktiya and Paktika provinces. They have been involved in several attacks targeting Kabul City, including high profile hotel and embassy attacks in 2008, 2009 and a recent 2011 attack. Combined Afghan and coalition security forces have captured more than 80 Haqqani leaders this year. 