Centcom Press Release - Feb 21

COALITION FORCES ID TERRORIST KILLED IN FEB. 17 OP
A terrorist killed during an operation on Sunday has been positively identified as Abu Karrar. Karrar, also known as Arkan Khalaf Khudayyir, was a senior intelligence leader involved in the al-Qaeda in Iraq network in Baqouba. He was also a terrorist facilitator for the suicide bombing network in the Diyala River Valley region, which conducts attacks in Baghdad, including attacks by female suicide bombers. Reports indicate the network has been disrupted by recent successful Coalition operations in the area.

Karrar was killed when Coalition Forces conducted an operation near Khan Bani Sad Sunday afternoon. As Coalition Forces arrived in the target area, they observed Karrar and another suspect fleeing their vehicle. Karrar brandished a weapon with the perceived intent to fire on the Coalition. The assault force engaged, killing both men. They later discovered an AK-47 and ammunition in the vehicle. The vehicle was destroyed to prevent further use for terrorist activity.

SUCCESSFUL OPERATIONS TARGET TOP TALIBAN LEADER
ISAF soldiers in support of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan conducted successful operations that killed two Taliban leaders, Mullah Abdul Matin and his associate Mullah Karim Agha on February 18th in Helmand Province. "As a result of this successful attack, the Taliban's networks have suffered another severe setback," said Brig. Gen. Carlos Branco, ISAF spokesperson. "Each successful operation ensures insurgent disruption that gives way for stability operations to take place." There was no evidence of any civilian casualties after this operation. Matin and his followers were responsible for crimes in and around Helmand Province and attacks against ANSF and ISAF troops. He was the mastermind behind several suicide bombing missions in Helmand Province that resulted in the deaths of many innocent Afghan citizens.