BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (August 20, 2008) – Afghan National Army Commandos and Coalition forces conducted a cordon and search operation in Laghman province in order to disrupt suspected Taliban safe-havens and IED cells, Wednesday.

The operation took place in response to information gathered following a recent attack by militants on International Security Assistance Forces in that area.

As ANA and Coalition forces approached the area, they were engaged by militants using small-arms fire. Approximately 200 civilians were seen fleeing the area, including women and children.

Once the area was clear of women and children, Afghan Commandos and Coalition forces returned fire on the militants and called for close air support, destroying one enemy fighting position.

During the operation, more than 30 militants were killed and a large cache of mortar rounds and IED materials were destroyed by the commandos.

A wounded militant was medically evacuated and taken to a Coalition medical facility for treatment.

No civilian casualties were reported.