Afghanistan: 81 Al-Qaeda terrorist killed in joint operation by security forces

Kabul, December 5: A senior Al-Qaeda leader has been killed along with 80 members of the group during joint operations in Afghanistan, the spy service claimed on Tuesday.

Special Forces, Army, National Police and NATO’s Resolute Support Mission troops conducted the joint operation in Ghazni, Zabul and Paktia provinces, a statement from NDS said.

Omar Khetab took over after Asem Omar was a senior leader of the Al-Qaeda branch. At least 27 members of the group were arrested and five hideouts destroyed during the offensives.

Qasem, known as Khuram Kayani, Hussan Hamza, a key member of the outfit for Afghanistan, Mustafa, a military commander, three Pakistani militants and two local Taliban were among the dead.

Al-Qaeda network’s members have been fighting directly against the government and international forces since 2015.

The Al-Qaeda insurgents have also providing communication support and training for Taliban on night operations, the intelligence agency alleged.