AF/PAK – SWEEP PAKISTAN SATURDAY 1.) Thirteen passengers were killed and eight others wounded when unidentified gunmen, who also abducted 16 others, opened fire at two passenger coaches in northwest Pakistan's tribal area, local media reported Saturday.  In a similar incident, five government officials, including an irrigation contractor, were kidnapped from Maidani Dam area of Kurram Agency, according to local newspaper Daily Times. - Xinhua/Daily Times 2.) Sources said that soldiers were on a routine patrol when their van was targetted with a remote-controlled device on the Munda-Samar Bagh Road near the Afghan refugee camp in Jandool area.  The soldiers were killed on the spot as a result of the explosion.  Police said that four to five kilograms of explosives were used in the explosion. - The News SUNDAY 3.) Two government schools were blown up Saturday near the provincial metropolis, sources said. The sources said that the militants planted explosives in the premises of the Government Boys High School in Sherkera village and triggered an explosion at 1.30 a.m. They didn't face any resistance. The structure of the school was completely destroyed in the explosion. -The News 4.) The security forces arrested an accused militant belonging to Afghanistan in Mamo Khwar village in Thall tehsil [subdistrict] on Saturday, official sources said. The sources said the forces were tipped off about the presences of a militant, in Mamo Khwar in Doaba area of Thall tehsil. - The News MONDAY 5.) Certain areas of the city have become out-of-bounds for the growingly politicised local police, who avoid going there even in pursuit of suspects, it emerged on Sunday.  Well-placed sources in the law-enforcement apparatus told Dawn that certain areas of Lyari and Korangi towns had practically become no-go-areas for the local police.  “These days it`s quite unthinkable to enter Lyari to carry out a surprise raid,” said a senior police officer.  Some other parts of Gulistan-i-Jauhar, where armed political groups often flex their muscles, police generally look away from these areas.  Rabia City, a huge residential and commercial complex within the jurisdiction of

the Sharea Faisal police station in Gulistan-i-Jauhar and known for the scene of tussle between two political parties for control, is a place where police avoid going. - Dawn 6.) Terrorists have destroyed two schools in Dara Adam Khle, SAMAA reported Monday.  A higher secondary and primary school was destroyed through explosives in F.R. Jawaki area of Dara Adam Khel. Sources told explosives were kept inside the building.  No causality was reported. - SAMAA 7.) Unidentified people blew up a gas pipeline in the Dera Bugti district of Balochistan on Sunday.  An explosive device which was planted along a gas pipeline in the Sui town went off with a huge explosion.  The gas supply from the well to the purification plant was suspended due to which many areas are facing gas shortage. - Express Tribune 8.) Elements within the Taliban, based in North Waziristan, have established a separate vigilance cell to hunt down people suspected of providing vital intelligence to guide the United States in its drone campaign.  Known as Lashkar-e-Khorasan (LeKh), the group’s only purpose is to identify, capture and execute people allegedly working for what is described as a web of local spies created by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).  The Lashkar draws it strength from both the Haqqani network and the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group.  The regions where the cell works are Datta Khel, Miramshah and Mir Ali town of North Waziristan, as well as surrounding areas where US drone strikes have been frequent.  “In the beginning, it was a loose network with members casually going out and trying to find out who is providing information to the US,” an associate of one of the groups explained to The Express Tribune. “It is more organised now and they are working scientifically on the counter-intelligence line.”  Once a suspect is caught “spying” he is taken to a Taliban court or Darul Qaza where judges or Qazis ask him to explain his position. If proved guilty, the person is executed immediately. - Express Tribune 9.) The security forces arrested the founder of banned militant organisation Lashkar-e-Islam (LI) Mufti Munir Shahkir in Sadda tehsil of Kurram Agency, official sources said on Sunday.The sources said the security forces arrested him during a checking at a checkpost in lower Kurram Agency. - The News 

 AFGHANISTAN SATURDAY 

1.) Four foreign military supply vehicles have been set ablaze. The Taleban have set ablaze the four foreign military supply vehicles in an area of Bakwa District in Farah Province. Speaking on condition of anonymity, a senior security official told Afghan Islamic Press [AIP] on Saturday [26 March] that the Taleban attacked a foreign military supply convoy that was protected by the Arya security company in an area of Bakwa District of Farah, on the border between Nimroz and Farah late yesterday. The Taleban claimed responsibility for the attack and their spokesman Qari Mohammad Yusof Ahmadi told AIP that four supply vehicles were destroyed in the attack and two others were noticeably damaged. - Afghan Islamic Press 2.) The Taleban killed a civilian on charges of spying for the government and foreign forces in the northern Jawzjan Province, police said on Saturday.  A tribal elder from the area, also said the man was innocent.  A Taleban spokesman, Zabihollah Mojahed, asserted responsibility for the murder, saying Mohammad was a former commander of the [General Dostum's] Jonbesh-e Melli [National Islamic Movement of Afghanistan] party and was spying for the government. – Pajhwok 3.) Taleban report: An armoured tank belonging to a patrol of the American forces has hit a mine planted by the mojahedin in the Khuni Khwar area near the centre of Khost Province which resulted in a powerful explosion.  The tank was blown up to pieces and the three soldiers on board were killed instantly in the explosion which took place at 1500 [local time] this afternoon. - Voice of Jihad website 4.) Taleban report: Two foreign soldiers were killed and two others were seriously wounded in fierce fighting that took place between the mojahedin of the Islamic Emirate and the American soldiers in Haji Abdol Ali Kalay in the Haydarabad area of Greshk District in Helmand Province yesterday lunchtime.  The American soldiers suffered the above casualties when they came under an armed attack as they were trying to carry out operations against the mojahedin in the area. - Voice of Jihad website 5.) Taleban report: Heavy fighting has taken place between the mojahedin and the internal soldiers in Dushi District of Baghlan Province.  An armed attack lasting half an hour was carried out on a motorised convoy of the internal soldiers in the Tangi Srakh area of the district at 1900 [local time] last night.  One Ranger and one Surf vehicle were hit and totally destroyed in the heavy face-to-face fighting.  In addition to suffering material losses five enemy soldiers were killed and four others were seriously wounded.  The mojahedin of the Islamic Emirate did not suffer any harm in the fighting. - Voice of Jihad website

 6.) Taleban report: An armed attack has been carried out on a motorized convoy of border forces in Shamalzai District of Zabol Province.  A convoy of vehicles of Commander Abdol Razaq, the chief of staff of the border brigade, was ambushed by the mojahedin on a road near Marghai village in the Qala-e Rashid area of this district at 1000 [local time] this morning.  One Ranger vehicle and one four-wheel motorcycle of the enemy convoy were completely destroyed in the attack, the wreckage of which remained at the scene of the incident by the end of the day.  In addition, eight soldiers of the enemy were either killed or wounded in the attack which continued for nearly one hour.  The mojahedin did not suffer any harm in the attack. - Voice of Jihad website 7.) Taleban report: Kondai District of Konar Province, 50 police officers of the puppet administration has been captured near the centre of this district.  The 50 policemen were captured in an armed attack near the centre of Kondai District at noon today.  The captured policemen, who were all unarmed, arrived in the area from Nurestan Province when they came under the armed attack by the mojahedin.  The mojahedin of the Islamic Emirate have also seized documents showing details of their jobs and training. - Voice of Jihad website SUNDAY 8.) The foreign forces left the military base in the Kandgol of Pech Dara in Konar Province early this morning, 27 March, and this area also fell under Taleban control now.  Haji Dawran Safi, a prominent Taleban commander in Konar, told Afghan Islamic Press [AIP] on the telephone on Sunday, 27 March, that all the foreign forces had left the Kandgol military base in Pech Dara in Konar Province and the Taleban are now controlling a vast area there.  He added: "The Taleban have been continuously carrying out attacks on the Kondgol military base over the past few days. The foreign forces have deployed their troops in the surrounding areas of the Kondgol military base to repulse Taleban attacks on this important military base for the past three or four days. But the foreign forces could not repulse the Taleban and eventually pulled their forces out of the Kandgol military base on helicopters and by road after midnight." He added: "The Kandgol military base and all the surrounding areas are under Taleban control now." - Afghan Islamic Press 9.) A total of 22 insurgents have renounced violence and joined the peace process with their weapons in Jelga District of northern Baghlan Province. Baghlan Police Chief Gen Abdorrahman Rahimi said that the armed opponents stopped opposing the government and joined the peace process with their weapons as a result of operative efforts by the police. - National Afghanistan TV

 10.) A senior Taleban commander has been arrested by foreign troops in Baghlan-e Jadid District of northern Baghlan Province, an official and the coalition said on Sunday.  The commander, Mullah Akhtar, was arrested by NATO-led International Security Assistance Force personnel in Gadihai area on Saturday night, deputy provincial council head told. – Pajhwok 11.) A Taleban commander announced that, after taking control of most of the area in Pech Dara in Konar Province in eastern Afghanistan, they have set up an administration there.  The Taleban commander [in Konar Province], told Afghan Islamic Press [AIP] , that they are controlling almost all the areas in Pech Dara and that, to administer the affairs of that area, a 12-member council has been formed under his leadership. "We have appointed about 200 people as police forces for ensuring security in the area and deployed 200 other people, who are taking part in fighting against enemy, to assist the police. Talking about education and health affairs, he told AIP that they had taken important steps for protecting health and education agencies in the area.  The Taleban commander said that the Taleban would not close educational and health institutions unless they commit something against Sharia. - Afghan Islamic Press 12.) ISAF forces have reported that over 10 armed opponents had been killed in Barmal District of Paktika Province.  According to the statement, the ISAF air forces targeted two opponents' hideouts in Barmal District and killed over 10 armed opponents.  When AIP contacted the Paktika Province governor's spokesman, Afghan Mokhlis, he said: "ISAF air forces attacked a group of armed men at a time when they were crossing into Afghanistan from the Pakistani soil last night; all the armed men were killed as a result."  He said that preliminary reports had suggested that about 12-17 armed men were killed in the air strike, but there had been no information available about their identity so far. - Afghan Islamic Press 13.) Taleban report: A powerful landmine explosion was carried out on a foot patrol of the American soldiers near the Mullah Sadat Akhond Ghondai in the Charbagh area situated to the west of Kandahar city.  The remote-controlled mine explosion was carried out at 1600 [local time] yesterday as a result of which four foreign soldiers were either killed or wounded. - Voice of Jihad website 14.) Taleban report: Helmand Province, three soldiers were killed and one was seriously wounded in face-to-face fighting in Yakhchal in the Nahr-e Saraj area of Greshk District yesterday.  The enemy suffered the casualties when they came under an armed attack as they were trying to destroy poppy fields in the above area.  One Ranger vehicle of the enemy was destroyed in the fighting, the

wreckage of which still remains in the area of the attack. The mojahedin did not suffer any harm in the attack. - Voice of Jihad website 15.) Intelligence operatives have been able to prevent 91 per cent of organized insurgent attacks from happening as a result of arresting masterminds, an official said on Sunday.  "NDS is the best intelligence network in the region," he said, adding spy agencies of neighbouring countries were busy in Afghanistan instead of working in their own country. He did not name any country. – Pajhwok 16.) An armed attack has been carried out on the centre of the Rashidan District. The Taleban carried out an armed attack on the centre of the Rashidan District in Ghazni Province yesterday. Both sides claim inflicting casualties on one another.  Taleban spokesman Zabihollah Mojahed told Afghan Islamic Press [AIP] that the Taleban carried out a light and heavy arms attack on the centre of the Rashidan District in Ghazni Province yesterday afternoon. He added that some financial damage was caused besides casualties inflicted on the police in the attack. However, there is no exact information about it. Ghazni Security Commander Zrawar Zahed also confirmed the attack and told AIP that two Taleban were killed and another was wounded in the attack that lasted nearly for an hour. He said the police did not sustain any casualties in it. - Afghan Islamic Press 17.) The acting minister of water and energy claimed that since insecurity escalated in some districts of Herat Province, the Taleban has been able to set up local courts there and said that now the people in some districts of Herat Province had to pay Ushr [10 per cent Islamic tax] and alms to the Taleban and solve their problems at the Taleban courts.  He also said that the Herat governor and police chief did not try to ensure security in this province.  Meanwhile, the Herat governor's spokesman dismissed Esmael Khan's allegations and said the security situation had improved in this province compared to past. - Shamshad TV 18.) Taleban report: A self-sacrificing attack has been carried out on a centre of the joint enemy forces in the Nawi Ada area of Barmal District in Paktika Province, as a result of which 21 soldiers have been killed.  The successful self-sacrificing attack was carried out at 1830 [local time] today by Ali Ahmad, a hero mojahed of the Islamic Emirate and a resident of Herat Province.  Some 65 joint enemy soldiers were stationed in the centre. 21 people were killed and 27 others were seriously wounded in the self-sacrificing attack.  The self-sacrificing attack was carried out in a Mazda car in which 4.5 tonnes of explosives had been placed. - Voice of Jihad website 19.) Taleban report: Four foreign soldiers were killed or wounded when a landmine explosion was carried out on a foot patrol of the

American forces in Baianzo in the Sarwan Kala area in Sangin District of Helmand Province at 1300 [local time] today.  One of their interpreters was also wounded in the incident.  The mine explosion was carried out on the invading soldiers when they left their base to patrol the area. - Voice of Jihad website 20.) Taleban report: A reconnaissance aircraft has been shot down in Zormat District of Paktia Province.  The aircraft was shot down in the Kolalag area of this district, where the American forces have their major base, at 1900 [local time] last night.  The aircraft came down when it was shot by the mojahedin while it was on a reconnaissance mission. - Voice of Jihad website 21.) Taleban report: A powerful explosion has been carried out on a foot patrol of the American forces in Dand District of Kandahar Province.  The soldiers fell victim to the powerful explosion by the mojahedin, when they were on patrol in the Faqirzai area of this district at 1200 [local time] today.  Five foreign soldiers were instantly killed in the powerful explosion. Helicopters arrived in the area in order to transfer the casualties. One rocket launcher left behind at the scene of the incident was seized by the mojahedin. - Voice of Jihad website MONDAY 22.) Afghan National Security Forces and coalition forces concluded operations March 27 in the Darah-Ye Pech District after clearing known insurgent fighters and providing security to the area.  The combined force also took steps to restore the land that ANSF and coalition forces had been using for bases and observation posts prior to the realignment of forces in the Pech River Valley. These actions included the demolition of unnecessary structures and the removal of the debris.  ASNF and coalition forces engaged five insurgents during the operation.  "The Afghan National Army successfully assumed control of Nangalam Base. The Afghan National Army, supported by the Coalition, continues to pursue insurgents in the Korengal and Shuryek Valleys. Peace will follow.” - ISAF 23.) At least 20 people were killed when a truck full of explosives was detonated at a construction company compound in eastern Afghanistan, officials say.  Fifty others were injured in the attack which took place on Sunday night in the Barmal district of Paktika province.  The dead and wounded included labourers, engineers and security guards, the AFP news agency reported.  Paktika's provincial spokesman said the Taliban claimed responsibility for the blast. - AFP 

24.) A joint Afghan and coalition force captured a Taliban improvised explosive device facilitator and detained several suspected Taliban insurgents in Pul-e Alam district, Logar province, yesterday.  The Taliban facilitator was responsible for the acquisition, construction and dissemination of IEDs and has been involved in numerous attacks against Afghan civilians and Afghan and coalition security forces.  The security force targeted a compound in Pul-E Alam district based on multiple intelligence tips. After questioning residents, the security force identified and detained the IED facilitator. They also detained several suspected Taliban insurgents for further questioning. An AK-47, chest rack and IED ignition device were also found on the premises and later destroyed by the security force. - ISAF 25.) An Afghan and coalition security force captured a Taliban cell leader operating in Kandahar City, Kandahar province, yesterday. The cell leader was involved in the coordination and execution of attacks against Afghan civilians and Afghan and coalition forces.  The security force was led to a compound in the district based on multiple sources and tips from local citizens. The force isolated the compound before calling for all occupants to exit peacefully. After questioning the residents of the compound, the security force identified and detained the cell leader. Another Taliban insurgent was also identified and detained. There were no shots fired and no civilians were harmed during the operation. - ISAF 26.) Afghan and coalition forces detained two suspected insurgents while searching for a Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan facilitator in Jalalabad district, Nangarhar province, yesterday. The insurgent, linked to Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan leaders in Pakistan, enables militants and suicide bombers from Pakistan to conduct operations targeting innocent Afghan civilians and Afghan and coalition security forces in the Kunar and Nangarhar provinces.  Security forces followed leads to a targeted compound in Jalalabad City, where they called for all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully. After ensuring the safety of two children, the security force detained two suspected insurgents for further questioning. No damage was caused to the compound and no civilians were harmed during the operation. - ISAF 27.) In Sarubi district, Kabul province, coalition forces discovered a weapons cache consisting of 20 82 mm rounds and four rocket-propelled grenades, yesterday.  During a security operation, coalition security forces discovered a weapons cache in Mehtar Lam district, Laghman province, today. The cache consisted of 15 75 mm recoilless rifle rounds, two RPGs, one 82 mm mortar round, two fuses and one 100 mm rocket. - ISAF 

28.) Russia is prepared for dialogue with Talibs, although no such contacts have been established for now.  "We have no direct contacts with the Taliban. But Russia supports national reconciliation in Afghanistan, which is of crucial importance," Russia's Kremlin envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov told Interfax.  "Therefore we think Talibs could return to peaceful life and become reintegrated with society. But there are terms, laid down in UN Security Council resolutions, which must be observed: those who are prepared for reconciliation must stop their armed struggle against the government, recognize the constitution and steer clear of Al Qaeda and other extremist groups. If there are people among the Talibs, who can make this step - there are such people we are sure - we will be open for dialogue with them," he said.  "We want them to now that a government that will seek ways of solving these problems would be acceptable for us," the Russian diplomat said.  Russia does care what Afghanistan will be like as a result of further national reconciliation, he added.  "We want Afghanistan to be an independent and peaceful state aspiring for prosperity. We are prepared for talks with such people," Kabulov said. - Interfax 29.) Zabol Province officials say that they seized missiles, light weapons, hand grenades and explosives and a quantity of ammunition in this province.  Intelligence staff seized six BM-1 missiles, three anti-tank missiles, six hand grenades, three light weapons, a number of suicide vests, 90 kg of explosives and some other ammunition in two separate operations in areas on the outskirts of Qalat city, the capital of Zabol Province, yesterday. - Afghan Islamic Press 

FULL ARTICLE PAKISTAN SATURDAY 1.) 13 Killed as Gunmen Attack Passenger Coaches in NW PakistanXinhua: "13 Killed as Gunmen Attack Passenger Coaches in NW Pakistan" - XinhuaSaturday March 26, 2011 05:19:50 GMT ISLAMABAD, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Thirteen passengers were killed and eight others wounded when unidentified gunmen, who also abducted 16 others, opened fire at two passenger coaches in northwest Pakistan's tribal area, local media reported Saturday. 

In a similar incident, five government officials, including an irrigation contractor, were kidnapped from Maidani Dam area of Kurram Agency, according to local newspaper Daily Times.Local residents said some armed men attacked two passenger coaches coming from Peshawar, the main city in the northwest, with heavy shelling in Bagan area of Lower Kurram on Friday, killing 13 and wounding eight others on board .Leaving the injured, the attackers drove away 16 passengers in the coach they were traveling in to Parachinar, a city bordering Afghanistan.A security official was quoted as saying that "the victims were all Shias."Another daily The Nation reported that 45 passengers were kidnapped along with three vehicles when armed militants ambushed a convoy of buses in Lower Kurram on Friday. However, the government sources did not confirm this information.The tribal region of Kurram has been a flashpoint for violence between Shia and Sunni communities for five years. Reports said that more than 4,000 people have died in outbreaks of sectarian violence between the groups since the late 1980s. 2.) Two Soldiers Killed, 2 Injured in Bomb Explosion in Dir LowerReport by staff correspondent: "Two soldiers killed in Dir Lower blast" - The News Online Saturday March 26, 2011 13:19:18 GMTsustained injuries in a remote-controlled bomb explosion early Friday in Jandool area of Dir Lower district, official sources said. The sources said that the soldiers were on a routine patrol when their van was targetted with a remote-controlled device on the Munda-Samar Bagh Road near the Afghan refugee camp in Jandool area. The soldiers, Havaldar Muttabar Khan and Sepoy Hameedullah Jan, were killed on the spot as a result of the explosion. Soldiers Inamul Haq and Rashidul Haq sustained injuries. The injured were shifted to Peshawar. Police said that four to five kilograms of explosives were used in the explosion. Police a lso said the area was cordoned off after the incident and around 200 suspected persons were arrested in and around the camp. Majority of the arrested persons were Afghan refugees. (Description of Source: Islamabad The News Online in English -- Website of a widely read, influential English daily, member of the Jang publishing group. Neutral editorial policy, good coverage of domestic and international issues. Usually offers leading news and analysis on issues related to war against terrorism. 

SUNDAY 3.) Two schools blown up in Pakistan northwest Text of report headlined "Two schools blown up near Peshawar" by Pakistani newspaper The News website on 27 March Peshawar: Two government schools were blown up Saturday [26 March] near the provincial metropolis, sources said. The sources said that the militants planted explosives in the premises of the Government Boys High School in Sherkera village and triggered an explosion at 1.30 a.m. They didn't face any resistance. The structure of the school was completely destroyed in the explosion that was heard far and wide during the night. Source: The News 4.) Pakistani troops reportedly arrest Afghan militant in northwest Text of report headlined "Afghan militant arrested in Hangu" by Pakistani newspaper The News website on 27 March Hangu [Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province, formerly North-West Frontier Province (NWFP)]: The security forces arrested an accused militant belonging to Afghanistan in Mamo Khwar village in Thall tehsil [subdistrict] on Saturday [26 March], official sources said. The sources said the forces were tipped off about the presences of a militant, Zmarak, in Mamo Khwar in Doaba area of Thall tehsil. The security forces, the sources said, in a raid arrested the man belonging to Khost province of Afghanistan. Source: The News MONDAY 5.) Parts of city become no-go areas for policehttp://www.dawn.com/2011/03/28/parts-of-city-become-no-go-areas-for-police.html(3 hours ago) Today KARACHI, March 27: Certain areas of the city have become out-of-bounds for the growingly politicised local police, who avoid going there even in pursuit of suspects, it emerged on Sunday.

 Well-placed sources in the law-enforcement apparatus told Dawn that certain areas of Lyari and Korangi towns had practically become no-go-areas for the local police. For instance, if some law-enforcement agency intends to carry out a raid in Lyari, using the good offices of back-channel contacts, they seek clearance from the dominant group in the locality informing it beforehand that the group is not the target but a raid is being conducted there for another purpose. “These days it`s quite unthinkable to enter Lyari to carry out a surprise raid,” said a senior police officer. Citing a recent incident that took place in Korangi Town, sources said a senior police officer of the area with his two police vans and a patrol car and accompanied by employees of a tracker company chased suspects who had taken away a medicine consignment and had entered a certain area in the Korangi Industrial Area. As the police party tried to follow the suspects, young men belonging to a political party, brandishing AK-47 assault rifles, blocked the way of the police. The armed men even physically stopped the senior police officer from moving into the locality. Finally, the police party abandoned their mission and returned empty-handed. If not to the same extent, but more or less similar situation does existed in several other parts of the city where police entry was forbidden, said a senior police officer, seeking anonymity. Till very recently, Pehlwan Goth was considered an area where police didn`t enter with outlaws such as Mudassir Chief and his brother ruling the roost there. It was during the tenure of former Gulshan-i-Iqbal SP Naeem Sheikh that police finally carried out an overdue operation into the area. However, some other parts of Gulistan-i-Jauhar, where armed political groups often flex their muscles, police generally look away from these areas. Rabia City, a huge residential and commercial complex within the jurisdiction of the Sharea Faisal police station in Gulistan-i-Jauhar and known for the scene of tussle between two political parties for control, is a place where police avoid going. 

On several occasions when firing was being carried out from Rabia City, police failed to go after suspects inside the complex. Often it`s with the complicity of the area police, alleged to be patronising different mafias. Over the years, the militant wings of different political parties and mafias seem to have gained strength over the police, who have lost their writ and become increasingly politicised. In the face of police inaction in recent years, the vacuum left by police is being filled by the para-military force, originally called from the borders in aid of the police. The Rangers have been given extra policing powers in the city.It is not only the lower ranks, but senior police officers also lack the will to take on different mafias and militant wings of different political parties active in the city. Senior police officers look to their superiors for policy guidelines and in such a deeply politicised police set-up, enforcing the writ of the law had become secondary, the senior police officer remarked. The capital city police officer could not be contacted for his comments on the issue. 6.) Terrorists destroy 2 schools in Dara Adam Khelhttp://www.samaa.tv/newsdetail.aspx?ID=30053Monday, March 28, 2011 9:14:56 AM DARA ADAMA KHEL: Terrorists have destroyed two schools in Dara Adam Khle, SAMAA reported Monday.A higher secondary and primary school was destroyed through explosives in F.R. Jawaki area of Dara Adam KhelSources told explosives were kept inside the building.No causality was reported.About 30 schools including a degree college have been hit in Dara Adam Khel in last three years. SAMAA 7.) Pipeline blown up in Dera BugtiPublished: March 27, 2011http://tribune.com.pk/story/138406/pipeline-blown-up-in-dera-bugti/ Unidentified people blew up a gas pipeline in the Dera Bugti district of Balochistan on Sunday. According to reports, an explosive device which was planted along a gas pipeline in the Sui town went off with a huge explosion.

 The gas supply from the well to the purification plant was suspended due to which many areas are facing gas shortage. Police registered a case against unidentified men and started investigation. The authorities also started work to repair the damaged pipeline. 8.) Taliban create cell to hunt ‘spies’ assisting US droneshttp://tribune.com.pk/story/138759/taliban-create-cell-to-hunt-spies-assisting-us-drones/Published: March 28, 2011 ISLAMABAD: Elements within the Taliban, based in North Waziristan, have established a separate vigilance cell to hunt down people suspected of providing vital intelligence to guide the United States in its drone campaign. Known as Lashkar-e-Khorasan (LeKh), the group’s only purpose is to identify, capture and execute people allegedly working for what is described as a web of local spies created by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). The Lashkar draws it strength from both the Haqqani network and the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group — two militias that control the regions along the Afghan border, which the US describes as the most dangerous place on Earth. The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) led by Hakimullah Mehsud also has its sympathies and what is described as occasional “active cooperation” with the Lashkar. Though the exact number of members in LeKh is unknown, one source in the tribal areas said it was more than 300. The regions where the cell works are Datta Khel, Miramshah and Mir Ali town of North Waziristan, as well as surrounding areas where US drone strikes have been frequent. The vigilance cell was set up for the first time last year by top commanders of the groups, both having a tacit peace understanding with the Pakistan military operating in nearby South Waziristan. The military operation in South Waziristan aims to root out homegrown Taliban striking inside the country. 

“In the beginning, it was a loose network with members casually going out and trying to find out who is providing information to the US,” an associate of one of the groups explained to The Express Tribune. “It is more organised now and they are working scientifically on the counter-intelligence line.” An intelligence official at Pakistan Army headquarters in Rawalpindi and several local sources from Mir Ali and Miramshah also confirmed the existence and activities of the Lashkar, but appeared unaware of its structure. In 2010, the US stepped up its drone campaign in the mountainous border regions to eliminate what officials in Washington called high-value targets including top leadership of al Qaeda and their local facilitators. The unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) operated by the US military stationed in Afghanistan to eradicate Taliban militants struck inside Pakistani border areas more than 100 times in 2010 alone, killing some al Qaeda fugitives, but mostly targeting civilians. Though American officials do not comment on the drone campaign publicly, it is commonly known that the predator hits a mechanical chip on the ground that spies allegedly place at Taliban hideouts. “The LeKh is working to find out who exactly does that and how Americans are able to find out where the  mujahideen (militants) are holding a meeting or which vehicle they are travelling on,” the affiliate of Bahadur group added. Once a suspect is caught “spying” he is taken to a Taliban court or Darul Qaza where judges or Qazis ask him to explain his position. If proved guilty, the person is executed immediately. Two months ago, the LeKh was behind the beheading of almost half a dozen motor mechanics in Mir Ali after US officials changed their policy of hitting compounds and instead started targeting moving target or vehicles with Taliban leaders on board. The mechanics, mostly from nearby Bannu district, became a prey of LeKh’s outrage after they were blamed for placing chips in a Taliban Hilux car to make them a target for US drone strikes. 9.) Pakistani troops arrest founder of sectarian militant group 

Text of report by Said Nazir Afridi headlined "Founder of Lashkar-i-Islam arrested" published by Pakistani newspaper The News website on 28 March Bara [Khyber Agency, Federally Administered Tribal Areas]: The security forces arrested the founder of banned militant organisation Lashkar-e-Islam (LI) Mufti Munir Shahkir in Sadda tehsil of Kurram Agency, official sources said on Sunday [27 March]. The sources said the security forces arrested him during a checking at a checkpost in lower Kurram Agency and shifted him to an unidentified location for an investigation. Haji Namdar, head of Amr Bil Maroof Wa Nahi Anil Munkar, or promotion of virtue and prohibition vice organisation, hired the services of Mufti Munir Shakir, a firebrand religious scholar, as on-air preacher in Qambarkhel area of Bara in 2003. Later, he developed differences with Namdar and shifted to Malikdinkhel area of Bara where he launched an illegal FM radio. Before coming to Bara, Shakir, a resident of Karboogha Sharif in Hangu, was expelled by political administration from a maddrassa in Kurram due to his extreme views against a particular sect. Source: The News 

 AFGHANISTAN SATURDAY 1.) Taleban torch four foreign supply vehicles in Afghan west Text of report by private Pakistan-based Afghan Islamic Press news agency Herat, 26 March: Four foreign military supply vehicles have been set ablaze. The Taleban have set ablaze the four foreign military supply vehicles in an area of Bakwa District in Farah Province. Speaking on condition of anonymity, a senior security official told Afghan Islamic Press [AIP] on Saturday [26 March] that the Taleban attacked a foreign military supply convoy that was protected by the Arya security company in an area of Bakwa District of Farah, on the border between Nimroz and Farah late yesterday. Four supply vehicles were set ablaze. He said that a security guard of the company was wounded in the attack and there were no more casualties.

 The Taleban claimed responsibility for the attack and their spokesman Qari Mohammad Yusof Ahmadi told AIP that four supply vehicles were destroyed in the attack and two others were noticeably damaged. The Taleban said that the convoy's security guards escaped from the area during the fighting. The Taleban had previously also repeatedly attacked foreign military convoys on this and other highways. Source: Afghan Islamic Press 2.) Taleban in Afghan north kill civilian accused of spying Text of report in English by Afghan independent Pajhwok news agency website Sheberghan (PAN): The Taleban killed a civilian on charges of spying for the government and foreign forces in the northern Jawzjan Province, police said on Saturday [26 March]. The victim, identified as Gul Mohammad, was shot dead by gunmen riding motorcycles in Aidhsk Kotal area of Aqcha district on Friday evening, deputy police chief, Col. Mohammad Ibrahim, told Pajhwok Afghan News. The attackers had managed to flee, but a search operation to hunt them down was under way, he said, adding Mohammad, a shepherd, had no links with the government or foreign forces. A tribal elder from the area, Ismael, also said Gul Mohammad was innocent. A Taleban spokesman, Zabihollah Mojahed, asserted responsibility for the murder, saying Mohammad was a former commander of the [General Dostum's] Jonbesh-e Melli [National Islamic Movement of Afghanistan] party and was spying for the government. Earlier this month, Taleban fighters stormed a house and shot dead two people on similar charges in Qarqin district. Source: Pajhwok 3.) Taleban report attack on US patrol in Afghan east 

Text of report by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 26 March Three invaders killed in explosion near centre of Khost Province [Taleban spokesman] Zabihollah Mojahed: An armoured tank belonging to a patrol of the American forces has hit a mine planted by the mojahedin in the Khuni Khwar area near the centre of Khost Province which resulted in a powerful explosion. The tank was blown up to pieces and the three soldiers on board were killed instantly in the explosion which took place at 1500 [local time] this afternoon. Source: Voice of Jihad website 4.) Taleban report fighting with US soldiers in Greshk in Afghan south Text of report by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 26 March Two American soldiers killed in face-to-face fighting in Greshk District [Taleban spokesman] Qari Yusof Ahmadi: Two foreign soldiers were killed and two others were seriously wounded in fierce fighting that took place between the mojahedin of the Islamic Emirate and the American soldiers in Haji Abdol Ali Kalay in the Haydarabad area of Greshk District in Helmand Province yesterday lunchtime. According to a report, the American soldiers suffered the above casualties when they came under an armed attack as they were trying to carry out operations against the mojahedin in the area. Source: Voice of Jihad website 5.) Taleban report fighting with government forces in Afghan north Text of report by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 26 March Two vehicles destroyed, five soldiers killed in attack in Dushi in Baghlan Province [Taleban spokesman] Zabihollah Mojahed: According to a report, heavy fighting has taken place between the mojahedin and the internal soldiers in Dushi District of Baghlan Province. 

The local mojahedin say an armed attack lasting half an hour was carried out on a motorised convoy of the internal soldiers in the Tangi Srakh area of the district at 1900 [local time] last night. The report adds one Ranger and one Surf vehicle were hit and totally destroyed in the heavy face-to-face fighting. In addition to suffering material losses five enemy soldiers were killed and four others were seriously wounded. The mojahedin of the Islamic Emirate did not suffer any harm in the fighting. Source: Voice of Jihad website 6.) Taleban report attack on border forces in Afghan south Text of report by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 26 March Armed attack carried out on motorised convoy of border forces in Zabol Province [Taleban spokesman] Qari Yusof Ahmadi: An armed attack has been carried out on a motorized convoy of border forces in Shamalzai District of Zabol Province. According to a report, a convoy of vehicles of Commander Abdol Razaq, the chief of staff of the border brigade, was ambushed by the mojahedin on a road near Marghai village in the Qala-e Rashid area of this district at 1000 [local time] this morning. One Ranger vehicle and one four-wheel motorcycle of the enemy convoy were completely destroyed in the attack, the wreckage of which remained at the scene of the incident by the end of the day. In addition, eight soldiers of the enemy were either killed or wounded in the attack which continued for nearly one hour. The mojahedin did not suffer any harm in the attack. Source: Voice of Jihad website 7.) Taleban claim capturing 50 policemen in Afghan east Text of report by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 26 March

 Latest news: Fifty policemen captured in Kondai in Konar Province [Taleban spokesman] Zabihollah Mojahed: According to a report by the mojahedin of the Islamic Emirate from Kondai District of Konar Province, 50 police officers of the puppet administration has been captured near the centre of this district. According to the details, the 50 policemen were captured in an armed attack near the centre of Kondai District at noon today. The report says the captured policemen, who were all unarmed, arrived in the area from Nurestan Province when they came under the armed attack by the mojahedin. According to the news source, the mojahedin of the Islamic Emirate have also seized documents showing details of their jobs and training. Source: Voice of Jihad website SUNDAY 8.) Taleban say foreign forces left another military base in Afghan east Excerpt from report by private Pakistan-based Afghan Islamic Press news agency Asadabad, 27 March: Foreign forces have left another military base in eastern Afghanistan. The foreign forces left the military base in the Kandgol of Pech Dara in Konar Province early this morning, 27 March, and this area also fell under Taleban control now. Haji Dawran Safi, a prominent Taleban commander in Konar, told Afghan Islamic Press [AIP] on the telephone on Sunday, 27 March, that all the foreign forces had left the Kandgol military base in Pech Dara in Konar Province and the Taleban are now controlling a vast area there. He added: "The Taleban have been continuously carrying out attacks on the Kondgol military base over the past few days. The foreign forces have deployed their troops in the surrounding areas of the Kondgol military base to repulse Taleban attacks on this important military base for the past three or four days. But the foreign forces could not repulse the Taleban and eventually pulled

their forces out of the Kandgol military base on helicopters and by road after midnight." He added: "The Kandgol military base and all the surrounding areas are under Taleban control now." [Passage omitted: Safi said the foreign forces had taken most of their equipment with them and some of the equipment they destroyed so the Taleban could not use it. Foreign forces left the area as a result of continuous Taleban attacks, he said] Haji Dawran Safi said that the Taleban are now preparing to attack another important base of the foreign forces in the Manogai area and they will soon start attacks on Manogai. The foreign forces have not commented on their withdrawal from this area yet. They also left another military base in the Nanglam area on 6 March and handed over the area to Afghan security forces. Earlier, the foreign forces had left yet another military base in the Dewagol area and a number of media outlets named the Dewagol Gorge as a valley of death. [Passage omitted: The Kondgol military base is the third military base from where foreign forces have pulled out. Background on Konar Province] Source: Afghan Islamic Press 9.) Over 20 insurgents renounce violence in Afghan north - TV Text of report by state-owned National Afghanistan TV on 26 March [Presenter] A total of 22 insurgents have renounced violence and joined the peace process with their weapons in Jelga District of northern Baghlan Province. Zabihollah Raiszada reports from Baghlan Province: [Correspondent] Baghlan Police Chief Gen Abdorrahman Rahimi said that the armed opponents led by Mullah Merza Rahim stopped opposing the government and joined the peace process with their weapons as a result of operative efforts by the police. The police chief also said that Mullah Merza Rahim, along with his subordinates, had carried out subversive activities for a year and now they returned to a normal life after they realized the devastating aftermath of violence in the country. 

He expressed the hope that the security situation would considerably improve in Jelga District since these individuals joined the peace process. Also, Baghlan Governor Monshi Abdol Majid described these individuals' joining the peace process as a valuable step, praised the security forces for their efforts and services and called on other armed opponents to stop violence and return to a normal life. This comes two days after two 10-member armed groups joined the peace process with their weapons and returned to a normal life in the same province. [Video shows the Baghlan police chief, Baghlan governor talking to a correspondent, policemen greeting the reintegrated militants] Source: National Afghanistan TV 10.) Taleban commander arrested in Afghan north Text of report in English by Afghan independent Pajhwok news agency website Pol-e Khomri: A senior Taleban commander has been arrested by foreign troops in Baghlan-e Jadid District of northern Baghlan Province, an official and the coalition said on Sunday [27 March]. The commander, Mullah Akhtar, was arrested by NATO-led International Security Assistance Force personnel in Gadihai area on Saturday night, deputy provincial council head, Asadullah Shahbaz, told Pajhwok Afghan News. Akhtar was involved in insurgency in Baghlan, he said. In a statement, ISAF confirmed the arrest in Baghlan. Source: Pajhwok 11.) Taleban reportedly set up their administration in captured Afghan east area Excerpt from report by private Pakistan-based Afghan Islamic Press news agency 

Asadabad, 27 March: Taleban have announced to form their administration in Pech Dara [in Konar Province of eastern Afghanistan]. A Taleban commander announced that, after taking control of most of the area in Pech Dara in Konar Province in eastern Afghanistan, they have set up an administration there. Haji Mohammad Dawran Safi, the Taleban commander [in Konar Province], told Afghan Islamic Press [AIP] on Sunday, 27 March, that they are controlling almost all the areas in Pech Dara and that, to administer the affairs of that area, a 12-member council has been formed under his leadership. Safi added: "We have appointed about 200 people as police forces for ensuring security in the area and deployed 200 other people, who are taking part in fighting against enemy, to assist the police. Talking about education and health affairs, he told AIP that they had taken important steps for protecting health and education agencies in the area. Haji Mohammad Dawran Safi added: "We have decided that all the education and health institutions would remain open. Schools will carry out their routine work as in the past. All the pupils and teachers will go to their schools. The Taleban are responsible for providing security to them and the Taleban do not want to disturb education process in Pech Dara. The health bodies will also continue their work as well." The Taleban commander said that the Taleban would not close educational and health institutions unless they commit something against Sharia [Islamic law]. [Passage omitted: he denies that the Taleban had been involved in burning schools] Haji Mohammad Dawran Safi said that they would establish a judicial system and branches of Amr Bilmaruf [department for promoting virtues]. He told AIP that the Taleban had appointed a number of judges after consulting religious scholars and had already established a department for promoting virtues and preventing vices. He added that the latter's activities would be expanded. [Passage omitted: he said Islamic system will be enforced in Pech Dara] He admitted that the centres of Kandgal and Nanglam were under the government control but said that government officials and police officers were being surrounded by the Taleban and that they

[government officials and police offers] could not come out of the district centres. He called on the police and government officials to join the Taleban and that they would be safe only under this condition. He said that if they were caught in the fighting they would be punished in accordance with the Islamic law. [Passage omitted: foreign forces withdraw their soldiers from Kandgal area this morning] ISAF forces say that they have changed places of their soldiers under some tactics and that they will have only one military base in Pech Dara. ISAF said earlier that they will pull out their soldiers from three bases in Pech Dara but in fact as a result of their step the Taleban influence has increased in that area and a vast area has fallen under the Taleban control. Source: Afghan Islamic Press 12.) Over 10 insurgents killed in foreign forces' air strike in Afghan east - agency Text of report by private Pakistan-based Afghan Islamic Press news agency Kabul, 27 March: Over 10 opponents [of the government] have been reportedly killed. ISAF forces have reported that over 10 armed opponents had been killed in Barmal District of Paktika Province [in eastern Afghanistan]. A statement which AIP received from the ISAF forces' press office in Kabul says that the ISAF air forces targeted a number of opponents in Barmal District of Paktika Province and that over 10 armed people were killed as a result. According to the statement, the ISAF air forces targeted two opponents' hideouts in Barmal District and killed over 10 armed opponents. When AIP contacted the Paktika Province governor's spokesman, Afghan Mokhlis, he said: "ISAF air forces attacked a group of armed men at a time when they were crossing into Afghanistan from the Pakistani soil last night; all the armed men were killed as a result." 

He said that preliminary reports had suggested that about 12-17 armed men were killed in the air strike, but there had been no information available about their identity so far. AIP tried to contact the Taleban spokesman for his view on this incident, but to no avail. Source: Afghan Islamic Press  13.) Taleban report attack on US forces in Afghan south Text of report "Explosion carried out on American soldiers near Kandahar city" published by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 27 March [Taleban spokesman] Qari Yusof Ahmadi: A powerful landmine explosion was carried out on a foot patrol of the American soldiers near the Mullah Sadat Akhond Ghondai in the Charbagh area situated to the west of Kandahar city. According to a report, the remote-controlled mine explosion was carried out at 1600 [local time] yesterday as a result of which four foreign soldiers were either killed or wounded. Source: Voice of Jihad website 14.) Taleban report fighting in Greshk in Afghan south Text of report "Three soldiers killed in face-to-face fighting in Greshk District" by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 27 March [Taleban spokesman] Qari Yusof Ahmadi: According to a report by the mojahedin of the Islamic Emirate in Helmand Province, three soldiers were killed and one was seriously wounded in face-to-face fighting in Yakhchal in the Nahr-e Saraj area of Greshk District yesterday. According to the details, the enemy suffered the casualties when they came under an armed attack as they were trying to destroy poppy fields in the above area. One Ranger vehicle of the enemy was destroyed in the fighting, the wreckage of which still remains in the area of the attack. The mojahedin did not suffer any harm in the attack.

 Source: Voice of Jihad website 15.) Afghan intelligence says 90 per cent of attacks thwarted Text of report in English by Afghan independent Pajhwok news agency website Kabul: Intelligence operatives have been able to prevent 91 per cent of organized insurgent attacks from happening as a result of arresting masterminds, an official said on Sunday [27 March]. Militants managed to execute only 9 per cent of their planned attacks, the spokesman for the National Directorate of Security, Lotfollah Mashal, told a press conference in Kabul. Mashal said Afghan army and police were involved in the prevention of attacks, with the directorate officials providing intelligence. "NDS is the best intelligence network in the region," he said, adding spy agencies of neighbouring countries were busy in Afghanistan instead of working in their own country. He did not name any country. "The NDS works inside Afghanistan to protect the national interest and maintain the rule of law," he said, describing the current year important from security point of view in the wake of the start of security transition process from international forces to Afghans. Source: Pajhwok 16.)  Taleban attack district centre in Afghan east Text of report by private Pakistan-based Afghan Islamic Press news agency Konduz, 27 March: An armed attack has been carried out on the centre of the Rashidan District. The Taleban carried out an armed attack on the centre of the Rashidan District in Ghazni Province yesterday. Both sides claim inflicting casualties on one another. Taleban spokesman Zabihollah Mojahed told Afghan Islamic Press [AIP] that the Taleban carried out a light and heavy arms attack on the centre of the Rashidan District in Ghazni Province yesterday afternoon. He added that some financial damage was caused

besides casualties inflicted on the police in the attack. However, there is no exact information about it. Ghazni Security Commander Zrawar Zahed also confirmed the attack and told AIP that two Taleban were killed and another was wounded in the attack that lasted nearly for an hour. He said the police did not sustain any casualties in it. Ghazni is a volatile province that lies on the Kabul-Kandahar Highway where the Taleban carry out attacks from time to time. Source: Afghan Islamic Press 17.) Taleban control several districts in western Herat Province - official Text of report by Afghan privately-owned Shamshad TV on 27 March [Presenter] The acting minister of water and energy, Mohammad Esmael Khan, has said that provincial government of western Herat Province has intentionally tried to worsen the security situation in the province. However, provincial officials dismissed the allegations and said that now the security situation improved in Herat Province compared to past. [Correspondent] Esmael Khan claimed that since insecurity escalated in some districts of Herat Province, the Taleban has been able to set up local courts there and said that now the people in some districts of Herat Province had to pay Ushr [10 per cent Islamic tax] and alms to the Taleban and solve their problems at the Taleban courts. He also said that the Herat governor and police chief did not try to ensure security in this province. [Mohammad Esmael Khan, captioned as acting minister of water and energy, speaking at a gathering in Dari] They [Taleban] have appointed some people judges and mullahs in Robat Sangi District and ask the people not to refer to the government. For God's sake, do you accept insecurity in Koshk, Pashtun Zarghun and Golran districts? The province needs a strong police chief and governor with the ability to go to Kosh District at night and sleep there as nothing can be done by instructions. [Correspondent] The acting minister also said that businessmen were kidnapped in Herat Province and the security officials could not do anything. 

Meanwhile, the Herat governor's spokesman dismissed Esmael Khan's allegations and said the security situation had improved in this province compared to past. [Spokesman of Herat governor, talking to camera in Dari] However, I want to say something totally different. The esteemed new governor has succeeded in establishing full coordination among security and civilian personnel in Herat Province. They have made visible achievements in this regard. As I mentioned, several kidnapping gangs have been arrested. There is not any serious case of abduction in Herat Province now. They have succeeded in thwarting several suicide attacks and explosions. [Correspondent] Esmael Khan has begun to seriously criticize the government for a month now. He warned that the security situation would further worsen unless mojahedin were included in the government. The Afghan government has refrained from commenting on Esmael Khan's remarks. [Video shows the acting minister speaking at a gathering, the Herat governor's spokesman talking to camera] Source: Shamshad TV 18.) Taleban report suicide attack in Afghan east Text of report by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 27 March Twenty-one joint enemy soldiers killed in self-sacrificing attack in Barmal in Paktika [Taleban spokesman] Zabihollah Mojahed: A self-sacrificing attack has been carried out on a centre of the joint enemy forces in the Nawi Ada area of Barmal District in Paktika Province, as a result of which 21 soldiers have been killed. According to a report, the successful self-sacrificing attack was carried out at 1830 [local time] today by Ali Ahmad, a hero mojahed of the Islamic Emirate and a resident of Herat Province. Some 65 joint enemy soldiers were stationed in the centre. The report says 21 people were killed and 27 others were seriously wounded in the self-sacrificing attack. 

According to news sources, the self-sacrificing attack was carried out in a Mazda car in which 4.5 tonnes of explosives had been placed. Source: Voice of Jihad website 19.) Taleban say casualties inflicted on US forces in Sangin in Afghan south Text of report by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 27 March Four American soldiers either killed or wounded in explosion in Sangin [Taleban spokesman] Qari Yusof Ahmadi: Four foreign soldiers were killed or wounded when a landmine explosion was carried out on a foot patrol of the American forces in Baianzo in the Sarwan Kala area in Sangin District of Helmand Province at 1300 [local time] today. One of their interpreters was also wounded in the incident. The mine explosion was carried out on the invading soldiers when they left their base to patrol the area. Source: Voice of Jihad website 20.) Taleban say reconnaissance aircraft shot down in Afghan east Text of report by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 27 March Reconnaissance aircraft shot down by mojahedin in Zormat [Taleban spokesman] Zabihollah Mojahed: According to a report, a reconnaissance aircraft has been shot down in Zormat District of Paktia Province. The report says the aircraft was shot down in the Kolalag area of this district, where the American forces have their major base, at 1900 [local time] last night. According to the details, the aircraft came down when it was shot by the mojahedin while it was on a reconnaissance mission. Source: Voice of Jihad website

 21.) Taleban say US forces attacked in Dand in Afghan south Text of report by Afghan Taleban Voice of Jihad website on 27 March Explosion kills five American soldiers in Dand [Taleban spokesman] Qari Yusof Ahmadi: A powerful explosion has been carried out on a foot patrol of the American forces in Dand District of Kandahar Province. According to a report, the soldiers fell victim to the powerful explosion by the mojahedin, when they were on patrol in the Faqirzai area of this district at 1200 [local time] today. According to the details, five foreign soldiers were instantly killed in the powerful explosion. Helicopters arrived in the area in order to transfer the casualties. One rocket launcher left behind at the scene of the incident was seized by the mojahedin. Source: Voice of Jihad website MONDAY 22.) Joint ANSF, Coalition Operations Maintain Security in Pech River Valleyhttp://www.isaf.nato.int/article/isaf-releases/joint-ansf-coalition-operations-maintain-security-in-pech-river-valley.html KUNAR, Afghanistan (March 28, 2011)–Afghan National Security Forces and coalition forces concluded operations March 27 in the Darah-Ye Pech District after clearing known insurgent fighters and providing security to the area.  The combined force also took steps to restore the land that ANSF and coalition forces had been using for bases and observation posts prior to the realignment of forces in the Pech River Valley. These actions included the demolition of unnecessary structures and the removal of the debris. “We continue to show the enemy they can't terrorize the innocent Afghan people of the Darah-Ye Pech,” said Maj. Shirin Agha, public affairs officer, 2nd Brigade (Infantry), 201st Corps, Afghan National Army. “The Afghan National Security Forces are determined the

enemies of Afghanistan will not bring back the terror they once inflicted on the people.” ASNF and coalition forces engaged five insurgents during the operation. “There’s been a lot of talk in the media recently about what our realignment of forces will mean for security and for the future of law-abiding and hard-working Afghans in the Pech River Valley. Some have asked if we’ve abandoned the Pech – I think this operation answers that question," said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Joe Ryan, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Division, Task Force Bulldog commander. "The Afghan National Army successfully assumed control of Nangalam Base. The Afghan National Army, supported by the Coalition, continues to pursue insurgents in the Korengal and Shuryek Valleys. Peace will follow.” 23.) Afghan building site truck bomb kills 20 in Paktika28 March 2011 Last updated at 06:35 GMThttp://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-south-asia-12877831 At least 20 people were killed when a truck full of explosives was detonated at a construction company compound in eastern Afghanistan, officials say. Fifty others were injured in the attack which took place on Sunday night in the Barmal district of Paktika province. The dead and wounded included labourers, engineers and security guards, the AFP news agency reported. Paktika's provincial spokesman said the Taliban claimed responsibility for the blast. The province shares a border with Pakistan's restive tribal areas and has seen more violence in recent months. The circumstances of the blast were being investigated, provincial spokesman, Mokhlis Afghan told the Associated Press news agency. A record number of civilians were killed in Afghanistan last year. A recent UN report on civilian deaths said the Taliban were responsible for 75% of all deaths. It said the proportion killed by Afghan and Nato forces fell, accounting for 16% of civilian deaths.

 The UN says the remaining casualties could not be attributed to any one side in the conflict. 24 - 27.) ISAF Joint Command Morning Operational Update March 28, 2011http://www.isaf.nato.int/article/isaf-releases/isaf-joint-command-morning-operational-update-march-28-2011.html KABUL, Afghanistan (March 28, 2011) – A joint Afghan and coalition force captured a Taliban improvised explosive device facilitator and detained several suspected Taliban insurgents in Pul-e Alam district, Logar province, yesterday. The Taliban facilitator was responsible for the acquisition, construction and dissemination of IEDs and has been involved in numerous attacks against Afghan civilians and Afghan and coalition security forces. The security force targeted a compound in Pul-E Alam district based on multiple intelligence tips. After questioning residents, the security force identified and detained the IED facilitator. They also detained several suspected Taliban insurgents for further questioning. An AK-47, chest rack and IED ignition device were also found on the premises and later destroyed by the security force. The security force ensured the safety of ten women and twenty-four children throughout the operation. In other International Security Assistance Force news throughout Afghanistan: South An Afghan and coalition security force captured a Taliban cell leader operating in Kandahar City, Kandahar province, yesterday. The cell leader was involved in the coordination and execution of attacks against Afghan civilians and Afghan and coalition forces. The security force was led to a compound in the district based on multiple sources and tips from local citizens. The force isolated the compound before calling for all occupants to exit peacefully. After questioning the residents of the compound, the security force identified and detained the cell leader. Another Taliban insurgent was also identified and detained. There were no shots fired and no civilians were harmed during the operation. East

 Afghan and coalition forces detained two suspected insurgents while searching for a Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan facilitator in Jalalabad district, Nangarhar province, yesterday. The insurgent, linked to Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan leaders in Pakistan, enables militants and suicide bombers from Pakistan to conduct operations targeting innocent Afghan civilians and Afghan and coalition security forces in the Kunar and Nangarhar provinces. Security forces followed leads to a targeted compound in Jalalabad City, where they called for all occupants to exit the buildings peacefully. After ensuring the safety of two children, the security force detained two suspected insurgents for further questioning. No damage was caused to the compound and no civilians were harmed during the operation. In Sarubi district, Kabul province, coalition forces discovered a weapons cache consisting of 20 82 mm rounds and four rocket-propelled grenades, yesterday. During a security operation, coalition security forces discovered a weapons cache in Mehtar Lam district, Laghman province, today. The cache consisted of 15 75 mm recoilless rifle rounds, two RPGs, one 82 mm mortar round, two fuses and one 100 mm rocket. 28.) Russia open for talks with Talibs - special envoy (Part 2)http://www.interfax.com/newsinf.asp?id=231925 MOSCOW. March 28 (Interfax) - Russia is prepared for dialogue with Talibs, although no such contacts have been established for now. "We have no direct contacts with the Taliban. But Russia supports national reconciliation in Afghanistan, which is of crucial importance," Russia's Kremlin envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov told Interfax. Russia does not think force alone can solve the Afghan problem, he said. "Therefore we think Talibs could return to peaceful life and become reintegrated with society. But there are terms, laid down in UN Security Council resolutions, which must be observed: those who are prepared for reconciliation must stop their armed struggle against the government, recognize the constitution and steer clear of Al Qaeda and other extremist groups. If there are people among the Talibs, who can make this step - there are such people we are sure - we will be open for dialogue with them," he said.

 Moscow is concerned about the threats of terrorism, extremism and drugs coming from Afghanistan, he said. "We want them to now that a government that will seek ways of solving these problems would be acceptable for us," the Russian diplomat said. Russia does care what Afghanistan will be like as a result of further national reconciliation, he added. "We want Afghanistan to be an independent and peaceful state aspiring for prosperity. We are prepared for talks with such people," Kabulov said. 29.) Intelligence officials seize arms, ammunition in Afghan south Text of report by private Pakistan-based Afghan Islamic Press news agency Qalat, 28 March: Weapons and explosives have been seized in Zabol Province [in southern Afghanistan]. Zabol Province officials say that they seized missiles, light weapons, hand grenades and explosives and a quantity of ammunition in this province. A statement which Afghan Islamic Press [AIP] received from the Zabol Province governor's press office says that intelligence staff seized six BM-1 missiles, three anti-tank missiles, six hand grenades, three light weapons, a number of suicide vests, 90 kg of explosives and some other ammunition in two separate operations in areas on the outskirts of Qalat city, the capital of Zabol Province, yesterday, 27 March. The deputy head of the Zabol Province National Directorate of Security, Shahzada Hamdard, said that it was a great achievement and by seizing these arms and ammunition they have succeeded in preventing tragic incidents. The statement gave no information about detention of anybody in this connection but [said] an investigation had been launched. Source: Afghan Islamic Press -- Zac Colvin