Afghan National Security Forces Complete Tangi Valley Engagement Operation
Headquarters Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force- Afghanistan
Uruzgan, Afghanistan (June 13, 2011) – Afghan National Security Forces, advised by a coalition Special Operations team, successfully completed a three-day engagement and clearance operation into the Tangi Valley of Uruzgan province June 12.
The purpose of the operation was to assess the area for any remaining Taliban presence and allow Afghan National Security Forces to engage and interact with villagers and key elders while patrolling through the 16-kilometer valley.
“These types of operations allow us to speak and interact with the local population to build trust and show them the security and capabilities that Afghan forces provide,” said an ANSF commander on the operation. “It helps the people realize that we are a capable fighting force, and we have a vested interest in providing security and protecting the local population.”
Throughout the three-day operation,
“This operation served a very important purpose in the Tangi Valley, showing the resolve and dedication of the Government of Afghanistan,” said a coalition Special Operations advisor. “It served as an avenue of communication between Government of Afghanistan officials and villagers throughout the Tangi Valley, linking local elders with district leadership and spreading the word about government sponsored programs and development opportunities.”
For many years, the Tangi Valley was known as an insurgent stronghold, but as the operation came to a close, there was no trace of insurgent activity, according to a coalition Special Operations advisor.
“This valley was once known for its insurgent presence. The fact that there was no insurgent activity here during our operation is a sign that Taliban activity in this area has been significantly reduced,” said an ANSF commander. “As Afghans stand against insurgents and their indiscriminate attacks, it clears the way for the Government of Afghanistan to come in and provide more security and development for the people.”