Regional Command South
Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force Afghanistan

PAKTIA, Afghanistan (August 5, 2011)– Commandos of 3rd Company, 2nd Kandak, advised by coalition Special Operations Forces members, conducted clearing operations and an assessment of the security situation in Jani Kheyl village, Jani Kheyl district, July 29-30.

During the operation, the Commandos discovered and destroyed an improvised explosive device and repelled two insurgent attacks which led to the death of four insurgents.

The Commandos began their assessment on July 29th with a visit to the Afghan National Police station where Col. Gulamnabai Katai, the commander of the 2nd Kandak, met with the commander of the Jani Kheyl ANP to discuss security and logistical issues.

The ANP commander said the village is frequently attacked and while he has enough police members to keep the village from insurgent hands, there would need to be an increase in Afghan National Security Forces to successfully drive the insurgents out of the area.

On the night of July 30th, insurgents attacked both the Commandos and the ANP police station. Both the Commandos and the police returned fired and maneuvered on the insurgent positions. As the engagement continued, the Commandos requested support from coalition forces. Three insurgents were killed during the fighting.

During this operation, the Commandos conducted a search for suspected insurgents operating in the surrounding mountains. Their search led to the discovery of an improvised explosive device and a reported insurgent observation site, which they engaged, resulting in the death of one insurgent.

While in the area, the Commando Kandak commander met with the village elders to discuss security issues. The elders said the insurgent attacks disrupt their daily life in the village. They also expressed their desire to have a stronger ANSF and Afghan government presence in the area.

Katai explained the benefits of the Afghan government’s local police program, which the villagers could participate in to improve the security of the village. He also emphasized the importance of Afghan citizens doing their part to support their own village.

“Ask yourself if you have done everything you can to help your village,” Katai said. “If not, how can you call yourself an Afghan?”

No civilian casualties or property damage were reported during this operation.