KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security and International Security Assistance Forces began clearing operations in the western portion of the Pech River Valley early Sunday.
The operation involved the insertion of combat forces by helicopter and vehicles in the Darah-ye Pech District and focused on villages west of Nangalam.
Earlier this month, combined forces conducted operations in the Pech Rever Valley resulting in the death and capture of numerous insurgent fighters, their weapons and bomb-making materials.
The insurgent forces still have a choice, and if they fight against Afghan National Security Forces, they will be destroyed,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Joseph Ryan, commander, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment. “The ANSF will pursue the insurgents until they can be assured that the security situation in the Pech Valley improves.”
Operations are ongoing.