Coalition forces continue Operation 'Free Market'
ISAF: KABUL, Afghanistan – Soldiers from the Afghan National and Italian army participate in Operation Bazar Arad (Free Market) in the Bala Murghab village, Murghab District, Badghis province since its beginning on Nov. 19.
The purpose of the operation is to enlarge the security bubble and provide safety and welfare to the citizens of Murghab.
Because of its location at the junction of the Murghab River and Pamir Highway, Murghab is a regional center for trade, often illegal drugs. Coalition forces have been engaged by insurgents twice during the operation.
The forces have expanded to 15 combat outposts in the surrounding mountains and they maintain security at each post 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
“With the expansion of the secure area in the region, the coalition forces are offering a serene life to more than ten thousand Afghan people”, said Italian Army Col. Anfrea Piovera, commander, Task Force North.