Coalition forces kill Taliban forces, capture leader
May 22, 2006
KABUL, Afghanistan (Army News Service, May 22, 2006) – Coalition forces attacked Taliban forces early this morning in the Kandahar region near Azizi, resulting in the unconfirmed deaths of up to 80 Taliban members.
The operation was aimed at individuals, but coalition forces encountered organized opposition from Taliban forces. Both ground- and close-air support were used.
Initial assessments confirmed 20 Taliban members killed with an additional 60 unconfirmed casualties. Five Taliban members were also detained and are being questioned on their participation in terrorist activities.
“We have taken this fight directly to the extremists who threaten the future progress of the people of Afghanistan,” said Lt. Col. Paul Fitzpatrick, Combined Joint Task Force – 76 spokesman. “Coalition forces are aware of media reports of civilian casualties and are continuing to review assessments from ground elements in the region.”
Taliban leader captured
In other action, Afghan and coalition forces captured a mid-level Taliban leader in the Tarin Kowt Distrcit in Uruzgan Providence May 19. Upon receiving information that Mullah Mohibullah, Helmand Province Taliban commander, was located at a Tarin Kowt local bazaar, the joint force detained him without fire.
Mohibullah orchestrated a Taliban ambush in Musa Qalay that killed one U.S. service member and wounded several others. He was also involved in numerous terrorist attacks against Afghan government officials and coalition members.
“Mullah Mohibullah and other insurgent leaders attempt to undermine the government of Afghanistan,” said Lt. Col. Paul Fitzpatrick, Combined Joint Task Force -76 spokesman. “The Afghan people won’t be denied the security and prosperity they deserve.”
(Editor's note: Information from a Combined Forces Command - Afghanistan press release.)
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