By Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan Public Affairs
KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – Nearly 300 Afghan men, women and children took advantage of a free veterinarian and medical operations program (VMOP) held at the Maruf District Center in Kandahar province Aug. 14 and 15.
The two-day event, sponsored by Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan officials and security forces, was also attended by both police commanders from the district. Afghan National Police and Border Patrol, assisted by coalition forces, held the Maruf District’s first VMOP in more than two years.
“This is the largest turnout of Maruf citizens for anything other than a Shura in more than three years,” said Nadir Kahn, the Maruf chief of police. “I am happy to see the people of Maruf believing in their police force again.”
The VMOP, designed to bring the citizens of Maruf together, provides free health care and shows the district’s commitment to the population.
Members of the ANP and ABP were employed at all stations to help with translation and relations with the citizens, while coalition forces provided medical aid, said a Special Operation Task Force-South liaison who oversaw the event.
“Overall, the team treated several different illnesses and executed their mission in the most professional manner,” said the SOTF-S liaison.
Maruf Gov. Wesa stopped by on the last day of the VMOP to discuss security issues with Afghan National Security Forces leadership from the regional, provincial and district levels. He also talked to more than a dozen patients while touring through the medical facilities.
Col. Raziq, the ABP commander from Zabul province and Maj. Gen. Mirwais, the Kandahar police chief, also toured the VMOP site and visited with locals, some of whom, despite Ramadan activities going on, made up to a 12-mile journey to attend the clinic.
“The support provided by the Maruf District Center and our coalition forces brothers will help to build trust and confidence in the people of Maruf that the government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan will support its citizens,” said Col. Anwar, an ABP commander.
A new clinic will open this fall at the Maruf District Center and will provide medical care provided by GIRoA to Afghan citizens in the area.
| Date Taken: |
08.15.2010 |
| Date Posted: |
08.17.2010 01:01 |
| Story ID: |
54686 |
| Location: |
KANDAHAR PROVINCE, AF |
| Web Views: |
62 |
| Downloads: |
8 |
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