Al-Qaeda weapons expert killed in eastern Afghanistan

An Al-Qaeda Network weapons expert was killed following a joint military operation by Afghan and coalition security forces in eastern Paktika province of Afghanistan.

Afghan and coalition forces confirmed on Friday the death of an al-Qaida weapons expert during a security operation in Mata Khan district, Paktika province, Wednesday.

NATO-led International Security Assistance Force following a statement announced, “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.”

The source further added, “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, ISAF said following the statement adding that a post-strike assessment determined no civilian property was damaged and no civilians were harmed.

Anti-government armed militant groups yet to comment regarding the report.

from KHAAMA
By Sadaf Shinwari - Sat Sep 15, 11:39 am

Posted in: Afghanistan, al-Qaida, alqaeda, International Security Assistance Force, Paktika, Paktika Province