Forces Target Taliban Leaders Throughout Afghanistan

KABUL – Afghan and CFs targeted Taliban leaders in Farah, Kandahar, Nangarhar and Paktiya provs., detaining more than 10 suspected insurgents, during 4 security ops, Jan. 16. FARAH PROVINCE - Afghan and CFs targeted a Taliban leader, detaining several suspected insurgents during a security op. The SECFOR targeted the Taliban leader, who's involved in acquiring and emplacing IEDs in Khak-e Safayd and Pusht-e Rod Districts. He's subordinate to the district Taliban shadow gov. He was involved with the kidnapping of local Afghans in the area, according to recent reporting.

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SECFORs followed leads to the target locations in Pusht-e Rod District, and conducted a search after securing the targeted locations. Several suspected insurgents were detained, after initial questioning at the targeted locations. The SECFOR discovered an AK47, multiple grenades, a chest rack, ammo, and a Taliban night letter. Night letters are a Taliban weapon used to intimidate local Afghans. The letters, bearing the Taliban letterhead, deliver threats of death and harassment to locals, who either refuse to support terrorist efforts, or maintain support of coalition efforts, or both. KANDAHAR PROVINCE - Afghan and CFs targeted a Taliban leader, detaining several suspected insurgents during a security op. The SECFOR targeted the Taliban leader who operates within Maiwand District. He's responsible for coordinating attacks, gathering intel, and movement of supplies to support Taliban insurgent activity. He's associated with Pakistan-based Taliban leadership. Recent reporting indicates he observed a possible IED attack in the area. NANGARHAR PROVINCE - Afghan and CFs targeted a Taliban weapons and finance facilitator in Behsud District, detaining one suspected insurgent during a joint security op. The Taliban facilitator operates within the Sherzad District, where he's responsible for direct fire attacks against CFs and aircraft in Tutu village. He organizes, sells and distributes weapons, narcotics and funds for Taliban insurgents in the region. PAKTIYA PROVINCE - Afghan and CFs targeted the Gardez Taliban leader, detaining one suspected insurgent during a security op. The targeted Taliban leader is involved in IED attacks on CFs in Gardez District. He's also associated with other Taliban leaders in the prov. Recent reporting indicates he was involved with an insurgent who placed an IED, targeting the ANP in the area. The insurgent was detained with an automatic weapon, a pistol, chest rack and ammo.

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