Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan Public Affairs
BADGHIS, Afghanistan – A joint Afghan-led force disrupted insurgent fighters and their weapons and financing network in the Bokan Bala area of the greater Morghab River Valley in Badghis province Aug. 10 during a presence and security patrol.
The partnered patrol allowed the Afghan National Army soldiers from the 207th Corps and 4th Commando Kandak, assisted by a Marine Special Operations Team, to take the lead in providing the security around Bala Murghab, said an MSOT team member.
During the patrol, the combined team was able to move into an area that has been outside of Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and coalition forces’ influence for more than two years, and engage local elders.
The ANA and MSOT received sporadic rocket propelled grenade, small-arms and machine gun fire during the patrols. The team responded with small-arms fires and precision guided munitions from coalition air forces on the insurgent positions. During the fighting, an unknown number of insurgents were killed. No civilian casualties were reported.
An explosive ordnance disposal team identified and destroyed one AK-47, 18 RPG rounds, two anti-aircraft rounds and other miscellaneous ordnance and weapons.
“The Morghab River Valley is a historically prominent geographic location and has become increasingly important to the Afghan government as an economic artery,” said Marine Sgt. Brian Kester, a Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-Afghanistan spokesman. "Roadways and ancient trade routes to neighboring countries and Eastern Europe flow through the valley, which makes it an ideal location for the government to improve development and assist local business.”
Local Afghans are beginning to perceive that the GIRoA, through the Afghan National Security Force, is actively providing for their security, Kester said. During meetings with village leaders and tribal elders, he said they recognized GIRoA as the legitimate government entity, providing for their security.
| Date Taken: |
08.10.2010 |
| Date Posted: |
08.15.2010 05:20 |
| Story ID: |
54602 |
| Location: |
BADGHIS PROVINCE, AF |
| Web Views: |
92 |
| Downloads: |
6 |
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