Taliban-designated district chief arrested

SHIBERGHAN (PAN-designated district chief was arrested along with his three associates in the Aqcha district of northern Jawzjan province, an official said on Monday.

Police chief Col. Faqir Muhammad Jawzjani identified the rebel commander as Qari Javed, who was detained in an overnight operation by helicopter-borne international troops in Umra Khan village.

One area resident, Mohammad Ishan said the detainee had long been involved in an anti-government campaign in the district and collecting money in the name of Usher from locals.

The Taliban and foreign troops are yet to comment on operation. Three months ago, 18 armed militants were killed and eight others arrested by ISAF forces in Aqcha district.

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