Afghan, Coalition Forces Conclude Significant Kunar Operation
ISAFJoint Command - Afghanistan 2011-04-S-019 For Immediate Release  KABUL, Afghanistan (April 7, 2011) – Afghan National Security Forces and coalition force concluded operations in the Marawara district, Kunar province today after clearing out insurgent fighters near the villages of Sarowbay, Barawarlow Kalay, Shirugay, Kowtgay and the surrounding area.  The combined security force moved into mountainous area near the Pakistan border in order to disrupt insurgent activities in the region and protect the people who live there. More than 80 insurgents were killed in the operation.  Insurgents had been using the area to move supplies and men into Kunar province and to stage attacks on Afghan and coalition forces. The insurgents in the targeted area were tied to kidnappings, intimidation and numerous attacks throughout the province.   More than 100 insurgents were engaged during the offensive operation that took place near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border.   "I considered the operation to be very effective bringing security and stability to the area. In cooperation with our international friends, we disrupted insurgents' safe havens,” said Maj. Shirin Agha, public affairs officer, 2nd Infantry Brigade, 201st Corps, Afghan National Army. “Most importantly, there weren’t any civilian casualties.”  During operations, Afghan and coalition forces found numerous weapons caches, seizing several uniforms; more than 1,100 PKM machine-gun rounds; 2,000 rounds of AK-47 assault rifle ammunition; more than 200 hand grenades; 33 rocket-propelled grenades; 22 recoilless-rifle rounds; nine mines, several sniper and AK-47 assault rifles; six heavy DSHKA machine guns; six mortar rounds; improvised explosive device-making materials and Taliban propaganda.   Afghan and coalition forces also captured a radio station that had been used as part of a network that directed attacks on civilians and recruited weapons and money.