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Bomb-Making Cell Stopped in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 5, 2005 – Multiple offensive operations over the past two weeks in Afghanistan's northern Paktika province netted nine suspected terrorists, Combined Forces Command Afghanistan officials reported today.

Afghan forces, supported by Soldiers from the1st Battalion, 508th Infantry (Airborne), detained the suspects as part of multiple offensive operations to maintain a stable environment in the area, officials said. Four suspected leaders and advisors of a criminal cell were detained in Spina Village, Omna district, along with Taliban propaganda on audio tapes and ammunition.

Three others were detained in the Sharan district with improvised explosive device materials in their possession, including explosives, wires and cell phones, officials said. Those detained have been linked to a bomb-making cell working in the region.

Two more suspects were detained in association with the Sharan cell, as well as a plot to kidnap and kill an Afghan National Police officer or coalition troop.

"The detainment of these enemy forces by a combined force of Afghan National Police and Afghan National Army forces represents a significant blow to the enemy in this region," said Lt. Col. Timothy P. McGuire, commander of 1st Battalion, 508th Infantry (Airborne). "Afghan security forces are working hard to ensure a successful National Assembly Election and long-term peace and prosperity."

(From a Combined Forces Command Afghanistan news release.)