Afghan forces take charge of security in Zombalay, Mirmandab

NAHR-E SARAJ DISTRICT, AFGHANISTAN

07.06.2013

Story by Sgt. Kyle Wagoner 

NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan

HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security Forces assumed control of the last coalition forces base east of the Helmand River in Nahr-e Saraj district, Helmand province on July 6.

District leadership recently signed a contract that transferred the coalition base to Afghan National Army, Afghan Uniformed Police, and Afghan Local Police, giving them complete control of all security operations in the villages of Zombalay and Mirmandab.

“Handing over the security responsibilities from coalition forces to Afghan forces is a tremendous step forward for the province,” said Afghan National Army Col. Abdul Azim Safi, 215th Corps Logistical Commander. “This is our country and we will continue to do our job and take care of our people. This is a good process and we are happy about it.”

Occupying the base will allow the leadership to support Zombalay and Mirmandab’s Afghan Local Police, the first line of defense between the Taliban and Gereshk valley.

Afghan Local Police complement counterinsurgency efforts by assisting and supporting rural areas with limited Afghan National Security Force presence, enabling conditions for improved security, governance and development.

By assuming full control of the military base, Afghan forces demonstrated their commitment and determination to prevent Taliban influence throughout Nahr-e Saraj by providing stability to its people.

“My personnel have a good relationship with local residents. God willing, I want us working together with them so we are strong against the enemy,” said Safi. “I want our people to have a nonviolent Ramadan in a peaceful area. Together we can all bring security.”

Afghan National Security Forces are irreversibly taking the lead for Afghanistan’s security following the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan’s announcement of Tranche 5 and will assume full responsibility for security by the end of 2014.

• Date Taken: 07.06.2013
• Date Posted: 07.07.2013 13:40
• Story ID: 109810
• Location: NAHR-E SARAJ DISTRICT, AF