Release Number 20083112-01a

December 31, 2008

KABUL, Afghanistan – After the conclusion of the operation in Sorubi District, an allegation of civilian casualties was brought to the attention of Coalition forces.

An initial review of the operational reports indicate only enemy forces were engaged during the operation.

“Coalition forces deeply regrets when any harm comes to civilians,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, a U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesperson. “We are verifying our operational reports to ensure no civilians were harmed and will provide our findings as soon as possible”

Original Press Release:

The operation in Sorubi District, approximately 60 km northeast of Kabul City, targeted a HIG commander wanted for trafficking weapons and fighters into and throughout the Uzbin and Tagab Valleys in Kabul and Kapisa provinces.  The targeted HIG commander is also known to coordinate and direct attacks against innocent civilians, GIRoA officials and Coalition forces.

As Coalition forces approached the targeted building, multiple armed militants exited the building and rushed to the nearby mountainside in an apparent attempt to evade the force, and to occupy the higher terrain.  Believing the targeted HIG commander was located with the group, Coalition forces pursued the militants. As the force approached the militant’s location, the militants engaged the force with small-arms fire.  Coalition forces returned fire and killed two of the militants.  Still receiving fire, Coalition forces engaged the militants with close-air precision munitions and killed the remaining nine militants.