News - Afghanistan

Haqqani Terrorist Network is responsible for majority of insurgent attacks carried out in Afghanistan, National Directorate of Security Spokesman said on Tuesday.

NDS Spokesman Lotfullah Mashal told a news conference that two armed caches have been recovered close to Kabul International Airport.

Mr Mashal said the Haqqani-linked militants had intended to use the arms depot to attack Kabul International Airport.

National security forces have captured the Taliban operator for northern Kapisa province in an operation, he said.

"The Haqqani Network has close ties with terrorist groups in Pakistan. Jaish-e-Mohammad, Harakat-ul-Ansar, Lashkar-e-Tayeba and several other Pakistani extremist groups train people to carry out suicide attacks," he said.

"A lot of ammunitions were hidden near Kabul Airport to be used for a strong attack against the airport. The weapons cache was recovered and the possible attack was thwarted."

Meanwhile, a group of kidnappers comprised of five members led by a woman were detained in connection with abduction and anti-government activities in Ghazni province, he said.

The National Directorate of Security says it has also detained a Haqqani-linked commander, who is a Pakistani citizen, along with his two men in Khost province.