Afghan National Security Forces conduct a combat reconnaissance patrol in Zabul

ZABUL PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN

09.23.2011

Story by Spc. Ashley Bowman 

NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan

ZABUL PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Afghan National Army and coalition Special Operations Forces team members conducted a combat reconnaissance patrol near the village of Ghawsuddin Kalay, Sept. 23.

The partnered force conducted the operation to disrupt insurgent movement throughout the district, engage the local populace and provide humanitarian aid in the form of food and winter clothes.

"This operation was so significant because it allowed us the opportunity to engage local village elders and discuss security, governance and development," said a coalition SOF team member.

A local village elder, Bahz Mohammad, expressed concern about development in the area as well as a connection to district level leadership due to the rural location of his village.

"I was invited to a shura in Qalat but we are still lacking representation at the district level," Mohammad said.

Afghan and coalition officials hope to connect rural villages such as this one to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan through various initiatives, said a coalition SOF team member.

“We will continue to assess the situation regarding security and governance in rural areas such as these, to help foster an environment that disrupts insurgent movement throughout the district and connects local citizens to district level leadership,” said a coalition SOF team leader.

• Date Taken: 09.23.2011
• Date Posted: 09.26.2011 14:35
• Story ID: 77608
• Location: ZABUL PROVINCE, AF