Joy Kar villagers return home

BADGHIS PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN

06.13.2011

Story by Sgt. Dayan Neely 

NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan

BADGHIS PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Villagers began moving back into their homes in Joy Kar, starting the first week of June, following successful clearing operations conducted by Afghan National Security Forces and U.S. special operations forces in Bala Morghab District.

Thanks to security provided by the ANSF and SOF, more than 3,600 villagers were able to return home after being displaced by insurgent attacks. The partnered force will work together to keep insurgents out of the village, now that the threat has been reduced in the area.

“Taliban historically use the Joy Kar village as a safe haven and facilitation route to maneuver in and out of other villages,” reported a U.S. special operations forces team member.

As villagers migrated back to Joy Kar, positive word spread to former residents that the village is now safe enough for them to return to live and work. Villagers were able to find temporary work with assistance from the Afghan government. According to reports, the Joy Kar school also reopened, employing eight teachers who will provide classroom instruction to more than 200 children.

In a radio interview, the Bala Morghab District governor, Ibrahim Gareftar, stated that security had greatly improved in the area, specifically mentioning Morachak and Joy Kar villages.

Gareftar went on to say that due to security, they are now able to help villages with development projects, but villagers must work with the government to see these projects completed.

The SOF team member also said as the village repopulated, the villagers discussed their security concerns, including potential improvised explosive device emplacements and re-emerging insurgent activity, with the Afghan Local Police. Now that the area is safe, the ALP has the opportunity to defend their villages and regain control of their community.

The Afghan National Army operating in the area informed village elders the ANSF and coalition forces were committed to working with the village of Joy Kar for the long term.

• Date Taken: 06.13.2011
• Date Posted: 06.17.2011 06:05
• Story ID: 72253
• Location: BADGHIS PROVINCE, AF