Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Yemeni army killed 4 al-Qaida militants in southern province

Yemen division 2011-10-23
Yemen division 2011-10-23 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
ADEN, Yemen, March 28 (Xinhua) -- Four al-Qaida militants were killed late Tuesday during an intensive army shelling on their hideouts in the southern province of Abyan, an army officer told Xinhua Wednesday.

The army barracks of the 201st Armored Brigade launched a heavy bombardment on two areas in the northern suburbs of Zinjibar city, the provincial capital of Abyan, where dozens of the al-Qaida insurgents were hiding, killing at least four militants, the army officer said on condition of anonymity.

A local leading member of the terrorist group was killed, the officer said, adding that the attack caused huge damages to the al- Qaida fortifications and some arms caches in the region.

Al-Qaida militants who took advantage of the conflicts in the country have seized several towns in Abyan and Shabwa provinces after severe fighting with government troops backed by U.S. drones. The Zinjibar city has been under al-Qaida control for nearly a year.

In January 2009, al-Qaida affiliates in Saudi Arabia and Yemen officially merged and formed Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula ( AQAP).

The group, mainly entrenching itself in Yemen's southern provinces of Abyan and Shabwa, is on the terrorist list of the United States, which considers it as an increasing threat to its national security.

The AQAP underscores the challenges faced by Yemen's new President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi who won support from major Yemeni political forces, the United States and Saudi Arabia.

Hadi is tasked with restoring security and stability to Yemen and putting an end to growing influence of al-Qaida that threatens the daily oil shipping routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

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More than 2 tons of explosives seized in Baghlan province

Afghan police forces handed over more than 2 tons of explosives and around 20 different weapons which were seized from various regions of northern Baghlan province during the past one year, to Disarmament of Illegal Armed Groups (DIAG) project.

Local security forces in northern Baghlan province announced Afghan security forces have had a number of significant achievements in this province during the first few days of the current.

Provincial security chief Gen. Syed Zamanuddin Hussain told reporters, Afghan security forces handed over more than 2 tons of explosives and around 20 different weapons which were discovered and seized by Afghan security forces during the current year.

Gen. Hussaini further added, the militants were looking to carry out insurgency activities in this province using the explosives and weapons.

He also added no suspect has been detained in connection to explosives and arms cache but the Afghan security forces have launched investigations to detain those involved behind keeping the arms for carrying out insurgency activities.

Residents of the northern Baghlan province praised the hard work of the Afghan police forces and urged the security officials to further equip and improve the security forces in this province.

This comes as Afghan police forces seized more than 2 tons of explosives and around 600 different types of weapons from various regions of this province last year.

Author: Ajmal Omeri, Baghlan province.
from KHAAMA
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Terror group busted in Herat (+video)

update: + video
Map of Herat Province, Afghanistan Extracted f...
Map of Herat Province, Afghanistan Extracted from http://www.un.org/Depts/Cartographic/map/profile/afghanis.pdf (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

HERAT CITY (PAN): A four-member group, accused of masterminding several attacks and plotting the assassination of the energy minister, was busted in western Herat province, officials said on Wednesday.

More than 243 kilograms of explosives were recovered from the suspects planning to assassinate former jihadi commanders, the governor's spokesman, Mohiuddin Noori, said.

"The suspects, residents of Herat, receive instructions from outside Afghanistan. They planned attacks during Nawroz festival," he said.

The detainees wanted to attack a gathering on the eighth death anniversary of Ismail Khan's son, Mirwais Sadiq, a former civil aviation minister.

A former governor, Sadiq was killed in Herat City during an exchange of fire between supporters of commander Zahir Nayebzada in March 2004.

A statement issued from the provincial intelligence department said the detainees were planning attacks in sensitive areas.  "The suspects have confessed to conducting several attacks," it said.



from Pajhwok

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14 militants killed in Afghan police operations

Afghan interior ministry officials following a press release on on Wednesday announced at least 14 armed militants were killed and 9 others were detained following military operations during the past 24 hours.

The source further added, the militants were killed and detained during 8 separate military operations conducted by Afghan national police forces across the country.

The operations were conducted by Afghan police in conjunction with the Afghan army, Afghan intelligence and NATO-led international coalition security forces at Laghman, Badakshan, Kandahar, Maidan Wardak, Logar, Khost, Paktika, Paktia and Uruzgan provinces of Afghanistan, the statement added.

Afghan security forces also seized some weapons and explosives including 3 AK-47 rifles along with its ammunitions, 2 rocket propelled grenade launchers, 2 heavy machine guns, 10 landmines, 11 hand grenades and a vehicle being used by militants.

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

In the meantime, local security officials in northern Faryab province announced at least 7 armed insurgents were killed and 7 others were detained in this province.

An Afghan army official said, the militants were killed and detained during an operation conducted by Afghan special forces and foreign troops at Khwaja Sabzposh district last night.

He also added, Afghan security force seized 8 rifles and some weapons and explosives including home made bombs during the operation.

This comes a number of night raids were carried out by Afghan and foreign troops in northern Faryab province during the past recent weeks. According to local officials more than 20 militants were killed and injured during the operations. In the meantime a group of 10 militants on Tuesday surrendered to Afghan and joined peace process in this province.

Provincial governor spokesman Javid Bidar said, the commander of the militants group Qari Rahmatullah surrendered to Afghan government along with his fighers. He was carrying out insrugency attacks against the Afghan government during the past few years.

from KHAAMA
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Taliban commander killed in Kunduz province

According to local authorities in northern Kunduz province a Taliban commander was killed along with his 6 fighters following a joint military operation by Afghan and NATO-led international coalition security forces in this province.

The officials further added, the operation was conducted on Tuesday night at Khanabad district of northern Kunduz province.

Afghan and coalition security forces also detained two additional insurgents during the military operation, the officials added.

Provincial security chief Sufi Habib confirming the report said, the operation was conducted on Tuesday night at Mullah Ghulam village where a Taliban commander recognized as Mullah Habibullah was killed along with his 6 fighters.

Taliban militants group yet to comment regarding the report.

from KHAAMA
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R.I.P. - Lance Corporal Michael Foley

28 Mar 12

It is with great sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the deaths of Sergeant Luke Taylor, of the Royal Marines, and Lance Corporal Michael Foley, of the Adjutant General's Corps (Staff and Personnel Support), in Afghanistan on Monday, 26 March 2012.

The two men were serving as part of Task Force Helmand when they were shot and killed at the main entrance to Lashkar Gah Main Operating Base in Helmand province.
Secretary of State for Defence, Philip Hammond MP, said:
"I was very saddened to learn of the deaths of Sergeant Luke Taylor and Lance Corporal Michael Foley, brave and committed British servicemen who died in the most tragic of circumstances whilst on operations. They died in the service of their country; they were in Afghanistan to protect Britain's national security.
"Both men were known to their colleagues for their professionalism and military qualities, but outside of their careers, it is clear that both were also true and devoted family men. My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all those left behind."

Lance Corporal Michael Foley, Adjutant General's Corps (Staff and Personnel Support)
 
Lance Corporal Michael Foley was born on 10 October 1986 in Burnley, Lancashire. He enlisted into the Army on the 12 September 2003, joining the Royal Logistic Corps six months later. His first two postings were with 4 Logistic Support Regiment and 3 Logistic Support Regiment, both next door to each other in Abingdon. It was during his second posting when he decided to re-trade to become a Combat Human Resources Specialist and after completing his trade training, he was posted to 9 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps in his new role as a military administrator. He arrived in Sennelager, Germany in December 2010 on posting to the Headquarters of 20th Armoured Brigade who at that time were preparing to undergo training for deployment to Afghanistan in September 2011.
Lance Corporal Foley deployed to Afghanistan on Op HERRICK 15 on 25 September 2011 as a key member of the Task Force Helmand Headquarters Information Hub team. He regularly provided close administrative support to the Task Force Commander and was a key enabler of the efforts of the Headquarters' staff. On 26 March 2012, he was manning the front gate as part of the guard force for Main Operating Base, Lashkar Gah, when he and Sergeant Luke Taylor, of the Royal Marines, were killed by a rogue member of the Afghan National Army.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Sophie, and three young children, Calum, Warren and Jake; as well as parents, Craig and Debbie, sister, Lisa and brother, Jordan. The thoughts and prayers of all those who had the privilege to know Michael are with his family at this tragic time.
Lance Corporal Foley's family have paid the following tribute:
"Michael passed away while on operational duty in Afghanistan where he was very proud to be serving his country in support of our combined forces in this theatre of operations. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends and everyone privileged to serve with him both on his last tour and during his military career."
Major BJ Cattermole, Scots Dragoon Guards, Chief of Staff, Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade, said:
"Lance Corporal Foley died protecting his comrades - his final gift of service to the Army and his country, and the ultimate sacrifice by a young commander who epitomised selfless service and dedication throughout his Army career. Since his arrival in the Headquarters the year before deployment, Lance Corporal Foley's infectious enthusiasm, absolute dedication and boundless energy shone through.
"An ambassador for his Corps and the Army, he served the Brigade and Task Force tirelessly, never failing to deliver the highest of standards as a soldier and junior commander. His cheeky wit, constant smiles amid adversity and indomitable spirit leave a hole in the whole Headquarters here in Helmand, and in our Rear Operations Group in Germany. Our thoughts and prayers are with his beloved wife and children, whom he worshipped above all else. Loyal friend, loving husband, devoted and proud father, we will never forget you."
Major AJ Smith, Royal Corps of Signals, Deputy Chief of Staff, Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade, said:
"Lance Corporal Foley – A superb soldier, a first class Combat Human Resources Specialist and an utterly dedicated family man. He was one of those people you meet and like immediately; friendly, cheeky, reliable and an all-round good bloke. I cannot recall seeing him when he was not smiling - indeed my banter with him was a daily highlight! He will be sorely missed by us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sophie, his wife - whom he utterly adored, and his three boys of whom he spoke whenever the chance came. We will remember him."
Major Olivia Madders, Staff Officer Grade 2 Medical, Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade, said:
"Lance Corporal Foley was a fantastic soldier. No matter how large or small the task given to him he would look up with his cheeky grin, say 'No problem, Ma'am' and set to with a professionalism that belied his years. He was fit; loved his PT [Physical Training] and we would often have a bit of a natter on our early morning PT sessions or a nod of the head if he was pushing out some massive weights. Most of all Lance Corporal Foley had an ease about him that made him comfortable with every rank and every background; these traits made him ideal for his job in a multi-national headquarters. I was meant to be flying home with Lance Corporal Foley at the end of tour and I know that when I have my glass of wine in Cyprus, he'll be toasting alongside me as we often said we would. My thoughts go out to Sophie, Calum, Warren and Jake at this terrible time. Rest in Peace, Lance Corporal Foley."
Warrant Officer Class 1 (Staff Sergeant Major) Paul Phillips, Superintendent Clerk, Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade, said:
"I first met Lance Corporal 'Axel' Foley when he joined the Brigade in December 2010. He was the epitome of all that you would want and expect in a good Junior Non Commissioned Officer. Bright, intelligent and extremely fit, he was one of those men to whom you turn to when you want something done quickly and to the highest standard. Always cheerful, polite and full of fun, he was a true gentleman who I valued deeply.
"He was massively respected by all ranks within the Headquarters and will be sorely missed. A true professional with a genuine love of the Army, he thrived in the operational environment and was immensely effective. He was quite simply, the heart and soul of his detachment, a good friend to the men who loved him, and a dedicated family man. My deepest sympathy goes to his wife, Sophie, and his three beloved boys – Calum, Warren and Jake. He will be sadly missed but happily remembered."
"His cheeky wit, constant smiles amid adversity and indomitable spirit leave a hole in the whole Headquarters here in Helmand, and in our Rear Operations Group in Germany."
Major BJ Cattermole

Staff Sergeant Anthony Howley, Chief Clerk, Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade, said:
"I have known Axel a little over 12 months, a fellow proud northerner from Lancashire! Axel was an absolute star, a person I held in huge regard, a dedicated husband, father and soldier. Nothing was ever too much trouble, never a complainer; the zeal and energy for life he possessed is rare, backed up with a cracking sense of humour.
"An affable character, he made his mark within Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade immediately, an instant volunteer to deploy on operations and the consummate professional throughout. Whilst diminutive in size, he was a giant amongst men.
"Axel was a truly inspirational young man whom I will miss hugely; it feels like I've lost a family member. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Sophie, and the kids. I feel honoured to have known him."
Sergeant Richard Dawson-Jones, Information Hub Manager, Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade, said:
"Lance Corporal 'Axel' Foley was a top, top bloke. Any task no matter how big or small, he was your man. He was utterly dependable and was never fazed by anything. He always did exactly what was asked of him, and more. He may have been short in stature, but he was huge in personality, and would always be in the middle of any department mischief. If it was his turn to receive the banter- he took it with his customary smile, all in good nature.
"Axle used to give me lifts home after exhausting PT sessions, and then he would make me climb all over his childrens' car seats, refusing to take them out in case he needed to take them anywhere. It was simple, his kids came first.
"Axel, you will be sorely missed; our thoughts and prayers are with Sophie, Calum, Warren and Jake."
Sergeant Steve White, Application Specialist, Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade, said:
"I first met Lance Corporal 'Axel' Foley on the training exercises prior to deployment and then shared the accommodation space next to him for the past six months. He would always have a smile, even at 6am he would offer me a cheerful 'Good Morning' in his Lancashire drawl. Nothing was too much trouble; he was always quick to help out with the applications when we were all busy. We were a team and Axel will be sorely missed.
"Axel, I will always remember your cheeky grin and your willingness to help. The Headquarters has lost a valued member and the office is not the same without you.
"On behalf of the Application Specialist Team I pass on our deepest condolences to Axel's wife and three children, our thoughts are with you all."
Corporal Craig Thompson, Information Hub Junior Non Commissioned Officer, Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade, said:
"Lance Corporal 'Axel' Foley was always willing to do any task given to him with pleasure. He would never back down from a challenge. He loved his family very much and was very proud of his three boys and wife Sophie. He decorated his desk with pictures of his family and called it his "morale corner." In military terms, he will always be a "Legend." He was massively popular with everyone and would always bring morale wherever he went. I will never forget his bright smile and cheerful laughter. He was an excellent Non Commissioned Officer and the best of friends, and he made my job so much easier.
"Axel had an obsession for fitness and even in his limited rest time he still managed to go bursting with energy tothe gym. He was an idol and everybody loved him. He will be greatly missed. My condolences go out to his wife and family at this difficult time."
Lance Corporal Bradley Drake, Information Hub Junior Non Commissioned Officer, Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade, said:
"Axel you were a small man with a big heart. You were always putting me at ease when I first arrived in Afghanistan, showing me the ropes and always saying 'don't worry about it mate'. You always did everything in a relaxed and efficient way, always smiling no matter what we were doing. You were the one that got me to go to the gym, convincing me that it would be good to get out the HQ for a couple of hours. Professionally you were always very proactive and hardworking, and would always go out of your way to get things done. Even though you were younger than me, you were someone to look up to. My thoughts are with your wife and young family at this most difficult time."

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R.I.P. - Sergeant Luke Taylor

Sergeant Luke Taylor, Royal Marines [Picture: via MOD]
A Military Operations news article
28 Mar 12

It is with great sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the deaths of Sergeant Luke Taylor, of the Royal Marines, and Lance Corporal Michael Foley, of the Adjutant General's Corps (Staff and Personnel Support), in Afghanistan on Monday, 26 March 2012.

The two men were serving as part of Task Force Helmand when they were shot and killed at the main entrance to Lashkar Gah Main Operating Base in Helmand province.
Secretary of State for Defence, Philip Hammond MP, said:
"I was very saddened to learn of the deaths of Sergeant Luke Taylor and Lance Corporal Michael Foley, brave and committed British servicemen who died in the most tragic of circumstances whilst on operations. They died in the service of their country; they were in Afghanistan to protect Britain's national security.
"Both men were known to their colleagues for their professionalism and military qualities, but outside of their careers, it is clear that both were also true and devoted family men. My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all those left behind."

Sergeant Luke Taylor, Royal Marines
 
Sergeant Luke Taylor, aged 33, joined the Royal Marines in 1997. Over the course of his impressive career, Luke gathered extensive operational experience doing a job that he loved. He readily sought out new challenges and tackled them with enthusiasm and a determination to succeed.
Sergeant Taylor was outstandingly professional. He was a selfless, dedicated and talented Royal Marine who approached everything he did with passion, a keen sense of humour and the desire to excel. A modest and capable Senior Non Commissioned Officer, he was liked and respected by everyone he worked with and was always committed to doing everything he could to assist his comrades in arms. His generous and compassionate nature made him a very popular member of the unit. Although he had arrived in Theatre only four weeks previously, he worked hard to drive the work of his team forward, achieving much in a short time and leaving a legacy that will be hard to match.

Sergeant Taylor came from Bournemouth. He married in 2008 and leaves behind his beloved wife, Nicola, and their young son, Roan. Luke was a devoted husband and father, and often talked of his family back in the UK. He will be sorely missed by his comrades but this is nothing compared to the loss that his family will feel. Our thoughts are with them.
His Commanding Officer said:
"Sergeant Luke Taylor was one of those very unique 'soldiers' who combined the highest professional standards with a completely disarming and relaxed personality.
"Always an absolute pleasure to work with, you knew that Sergeant Taylor would deliver first time, every time. With a wealth of experience under his belt, he was fearless and would tackle every challenge head on with his usual charismatic but direct approach. He was a natural focal point; those junior would look up to him, those above would listen when he spoke. Physically robust, he was a great sportsman and always lead from the front. And that is how I will remember him – a natural leader, with inspirational flair who was devoted to his family. They are of course, utmost in my mind, at this terribly sad time."
His Officer Commanding said:
"Sergeant Luke Taylor was a formidable character who doted on his family. He always spoke of them and you could tell they were never far from his thoughts. His son, Roan, in particular, was clearly an inspiration to him. Sergeant Taylor was one of my best Marines who took direction and gave me tangible results. Sharp, quick-witted and always ready to volunteer, Sergeant Taylor was an integral member of the team. A natural team player, he was equally adept on his own using his abundant experience and sheer initiative to drive forward. For me, Sergeant Taylor epitomised everything positive about the military – he worked hard and played hard and his efforts here in Helmand will not be forgotten. Those friends and colleagues who remain behind on tour have grown even stronger since his loss and they will remember him in line with the highest traditions of the military – they will deliver the results on operations that he would have wanted and they celebrate his life and mourn his loss when they return. As we soldier on and remember Luke in our own way, our thoughts of course, are with his wife, Niki, and their son, Roan, at this tragic time."
"Sergeant Taylor epitomised everything positive about the military – he worked hard and played hard and his efforts here in Helmand will not be forgotten."
Sergeant Luke Taylor RM's Officer Commanding

A colleague said:
"Luke was the kind of guy you wanted next to you– regardless of the situation, he was a cool head and a source of endless banter. I never saw him fazed; he just seemed to "crack on" and many a time dragged those around with him! He had one of those infectious charismas, always able to talk himself out of a situation. For me, like so many, Luke was simply an inspiration. Completely dedicated and loyal to his family, you could just feel the warmth when he spoke of them. And on the rugby pitch he was a master – not just at playing, but leading teams to victory. It is difficult to try and sum Luke up in just these few words –we all miss him, but that is of course nothing compared to his devoted wife, Niki, and loving son, Roan. Our thoughts are with them. We will celebrate his achievements and the memories he has given us. Luke – thank you from us all for the good times you gave us and the stories that we will carry on telling long into the future."
The following tributes have been made by former colleagues in the Royal Marines.
A warrant officer class 2 from the Royal Marines:
"Loyal colleague, close friend, training buddy, comedy inspiration. He will be sadly missed but not forgotten."
A colour sergeant from the Royal Marines said:
"It is difficult to summarise in a few words the sorrow and grief felt for Luke's loss. Sadness for his immediate family, Niki and his little bruiser, his Mum, brother and remaining family but also that empty feeling and grief gripping us remaining members of his extended family - the Royal Marines Brotherhood. Many memories all bring a smile and a laugh. Another good bloke taken. Rest easy fella. See you on the flip side."
A colour sergeant from the Royal Marines said:
"Luke, you had a Heart of Oak that came with loyalty and a brilliant sense of humour. These are the traits of an inspired father, loving husband, Royal Marine and quality oppo.
"Stand Easy Royal."
A sergeant from the Royal Marines said:
"Luke, a hoofing Bootneck, hoofing bloke, hoofing mate. Always with a smile on your face and the ability to make us all laugh - you will be sorely missed your friend and brother in arms."
A corporal from the Royal Marines said:
"Luke, a true friend is gone and a legend is born. A hoofing bloke, when Luke talked people listened because nobody could spin a dit like Luke. He lived life to the max, constantly pushing the boundaries, at home learning to BMX with his son Roan, or a complete change in career path, never happy to sit on his 'Globe and Laurels' (he'd rip me for that pun). Always the heart and soul of any party and had everyone around him in tears, and now he's done it again.
"To his wife, Niki, and son, Roan, when Luke and I went away on lads' biking adventures Luke's conversations always came back to home and you guys. I don't think you were ever far from his thoughts and I felt lucky to share them - it was true love in every sense of the word. My heart goes out to you and if there is anything you ever need, it goes without saying, just ask. To Luke's family all I can say is, you did an extraordinary job, my deepest condolences. Love you forever mate."

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R.I.P. - Sgt. William R. Wilson III

DOD Identifies Army Casualty

             The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

             Sgt. William R. Wilson III, of Getzville, N.Y., died March 26 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, of wounds from small arms fire.

            His death was originally reported by the International Security Assistance Force, which characterized it as the result of gunshot wounds inflicted by an alleged member of the Afghan Local Police.

            Wilson was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 172nd Infantry Brigade, Grafenwoehr, Germany.

             For more information the media may contact U.S. Army Europe public affairs in Heidelberg, Germany by phone at 011-49-6221-57-8628

---
The family of Sgt. William R. Wilson III was informed Monday evening that the Getzville man was shot and killed in Afghanistan earlier in the day.
Wilson, 27, was shot by a member of a local Afghan police force.
Wilson recently visited his family in Western New York and made the following Facebook post on March 12:
"Just wanted to thank all the fam and friends back home for a great time on leave. Sorry I wasn't able to see some, but I'll catch you next time. Really had a blast and looking forward to the summer. Thanks! Slowly making my way back to the boys!"





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Over a dozen fighters, 3 Afghan soldiers killed

HERAT CITY/ KUNDUZ CITY (PAN): More than a dozen Taliban fighters and three Afghan National Army (ANA) soldiers were killed during clashes in different parts of the country, officials said on Wednesday.

A Taliban-designated deputy governor for northwestern Badghis province, Mullah Najibullah, was among two rebels killed during a firefight with ANA soldiers in Maqur district, a military official said.

The 207th Zafar Military Corps spokesman, Col. Najibullah Najibi, said a Taliban shadow district chief for Kashk Kohna in western Herat province was killed and one of his accomplices wounded as a result of a separate operation.

Mahauddin Noori, the governor’s spokesman, confirmed the incident and said the security situation in the district would improve with the death of Mullah Abdul Khaliq, alias Tor Jan.

In another incident, two local insurgent commanders, Mullah Satar and Mullah Mohammad Ewaz, were killed along with two associates in a gunbattle with Afghan soldiers. Another six fighters were wounded in the clash that left three soldiers dead and as many wounded, according to Najibi.

Six more fighters, including a commander, were killed and two others detained in the Ghulam Ali village in Khanabad district of northern Kunduz province, the town’s administrative head said.

Sofi Habib said the eight-member group that wanted to attack the district headquarters was targeted by a NATO helicopter. The six militants killed included Mullah Habibullah, the rebel leader. The official accused the group of planting roadside bombs and killing a counterterrorism police officer four months ago.

from Pajhwok
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Afghan soldiers among 10 killed in clashes

HERAT CITY (PAN): Seven Taliban fighters and three Afghan soldiers have been killed in separate incidents of violence in Herat, Badghis and Farah provinces, an official said on Tuesday.

A shadow Taliban governor for Badghis province was killed along with another fighter during an operation in the Maqur district, the 207th Zafar Military Corps spokesman, Najibullah Najibi, told Pajhwok Afghan News.

One militant was killed and another wounded in a separate operation in Kushk-i-Kuhna district of Herat province, he said.

The slain insurgent was a Taliban-designated chief for the district, he said, adding the soldiers suffered no casualties in the two operations.

Four more Taliban fighters, including two commanders, were killed and six others wounded in a clash with Afghan troops on the Farah-Delaram highway in Farah province, the spokesman said.

Najibi said three Afghan soldiers were also killed and as many wounded in the clash.


from Pajhwok Afghan News

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