Afghan and coalition forces conduct patrols in Arghandab district, engage in dialog with local people

ZABUL PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN

04.30.2011

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class trevor andersen 

NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan

ZABUL, Afghanistan - A combined team of Afghan and coalition special operations forces met with Sayagaz villagers in the Arghandab district of Zabul province, April 30, to engage with the local leaders and discuss security, development, and governance initiatives in the region.

The visit comes as part of a larger effort to meet with the villages in Arghandab district. The Afghan led team recently visited six villages in the Gaza valley of Arghandab on April 26. The engagements were the second phase of engagements and security patrols for combined Special Operations Forces operating in the area, where outreach and dialog with the Government of Afghanistan has been limited in recent years.

The Arghandab District Chief of Police was with the combined team and met with Sayagaz village elders. During their meeting, he highlighted security and development initiatives planned by Arghandab district and Zabul provincial officials. Afghan commandos also spoke to villagers about how Afghan security forces can better protect the local populace and enhance cooperation with security initiatives.

An Afghan commando team leader said several village elders expressed concern over security and said more must be done by Afghan and coalition forces to maintain and enhance security.

“We are working with the people of Arghandab to make this area more secure,” said the Afghan team leader.

• Date Taken: 04.30.2011
• Date Posted: 05.04.2011 02:20
• Story ID: 69816
• Location: ZABUL PROVINCE, AF