Supreme Allied Commander Europe Visits Afghanistan and Urges Greater Counter Narcotic Role

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

09.24.2008

Courtesy Story

NATO - Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe

By the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe Public Affairs Office

KABUL, Afghanistan - Gen. John Craddock, Supreme Allied Commander, Europe, wrapped up a three day trip today.

Gen. Craddock received an operational update at the International Security Assistance Force Headquarters and travelled to Regional Command West in Herat, followed by a brief stop at a Provincial Reconstruction Team in Farah. At both locations he came away encouraged by the dedication and determination of the NATO troops.

During an interview with media travelling with his party, Craddock explained his recent push to increase ISAF's role in counter narcotics.

"There are some perceptions among nations that we're talking eradication -- we're not," said Craddock. "As an interim measure I've asked for expanded authority from NATO to permit ISAF attack of drug laboratories and drug trafficking facilities -- not the farmers."

Craddock explained the processing from opium to heroin is what increases the value. He stated that a kilo of opium is worth about $100, while a kilo of heroin is around $3500. If NATO/ISAF forces can destroy the processing facility or, after it's made, interdict the traffickers, Craddock believes the traffickers will be hurt the most and the insurgency and corrupt officials will be deprived of this revenue.

Additionally, Craddock explained that some nations are concerned that this increased role might cause the traffickers and insurgents to attack NATO forces more ferociously.

"This is a totally specious argument," he said. "What's more ferocious than IEDs and suicide bombs? If we do this, we'll cut the legs out from under them because they won't have the money to pay the bomb makers and buy the materials to attack us."

Craddock said he was convinced NATO forces must be able to carry out these types of operations and was optimistic that the North Atlantic Council would approve his request.

"The fact is the Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors and Marines of NATO are being killed because of the money being generated from this industry," he said. "As a commander I can't let this continue without doing everything I can to stop it. This is the best measure we can give our forces for the best opportunity to come home safe and sound."

• Date Taken: 09.24.2008
• Date Posted: 09.24.2008 11:27
• Story ID: 24082
• Location: KABUL, AF