Three killed in Helmand
ISAF Joint Command Evening Operational Update May 24, 2011
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan 2011-05-S-088 For Immediate Release   A combined Afghan and coalition force seized several compounds containing illegal drugs and killed three insurgent fighters during a combined operation in the Kajaki district, Helmand province yesterday.  The operation was intended to disrupt the illegal drug trade and insurgent activity in the region, according to a coalition team leader.  One of the objectives, an opium refinery, served a dual purpose for the insurgents in the area, according to coalition officials. A coalition team leader said sales from opium helped finance Taliban operations, and drug facilities in the area that have historically served as a staging location for insurgent activity.   Upon insertion and throughout the mission, the combined force was engaged with small-arms fire from insurgents. The team leader said the combined force pushed the insurgents out of the district, and searched a series of facilities for drugs and other illegal substances.   “The illicit production of opium throughout the country is a heavily targeted objective by the Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, and eliminating this threat is vital to long-term security, governance and effective development of Afghanistan,” said a GIRoA official. “We are building our government capacity to enhance security, and combat the drug trade that supports insurgency and promotes crime and corruption.”  “We are all working together to combat the enemy in the most effective way possible to finish the war against the insurgents,” said Col. Nader, 1st Commando Brigade executive officer. “We strive to bring peace to the Afghan people, and won’t stop until our country is where we want it to be.”  No civilian casualties or property damage was reported during the operation.