A major security operation led by Afghan National Security Forces wrapped up May 2.
Over 12,000 Afghan soldiers and policeman, supported by 300 ISAF soldiers, participated in Operations Wahadat, which focused efforts in the area between Jowzjan, Sar-e Pul and Faryab province, known as the ‘Tri-provincial’ area.
ISAF Regional Command North Provincial Reconstruction Team Maimanah’s commander, Norwegian Army Col. Fred Arne Jacobsen, said the operation was a success.
“The operation has been planned with the Afghan army in the lead all the way, and I've seen this operation as a kind of ultimate test of our closest colleagues in the 1st Brigade,” said Jacobsen. “They really did an excellent job.”
The area between the three provinces is a challenging arena however, the Provincial Government of Faryab assessed this area had the potential to become a safe-haven for insurgents in northern Afghanistan and took action.
“The provincial government saw that there were too few permanent security forces present to keep the insurgents at bay, and therefore initiated a long term security operation that, among other things, would pave the way to create multiple checkpoints operated by Afghan security forces," added Jacobsen.
During the operation multiple checkpoints were established and combat outposts were resupplied as well as a significant number of weapons were seized.
“The Afghan security forces planning and executing this operation has really impressed us by proving that they are able to plan and conduct an operation that both require good stamina and an ability to coordinate efforts across both Afghan and international security forces,” explained Jacobsen. “This is a victory for the Afghan security forces of northern Afghanistan.”
As a result of the operation, provincial authorities have increased their presence in the area and have already visited the district of Belcheragh. The aim is to provide assistance to the local population and to create an open dialogue with the region's local leaders.
(ISAF: 2 mei 2011)
