Afghan National Army commandos from the 3rd Kandak, assisted by U.S. special forces, came under attack in Kandahar province Wednesday while conducting a security patrol to degrade and disrupt insurgents.
The Afghan-led force went to a series of compounds in Howzi Madad located in the Zheray District of Kandahar after intelligence confirmed militant activity.
As the partnered force neared the first set of compounds, they came under attack by rocket propelled grenade and small-arms fire from multiple enemy positions, one of which was a mosque being used by insurgents as their headquarters. A special forces commander on the ground said that more than 12 insurgents were killed in an escalation of force.
"The males of the village seemed extremely friendly and helpful toward the coalition forces, and even pointed out some improvised explosive devices within the town and asked if we could reduce it for them," said the coalition forces commander.
While conducting a search of the compounds, local Afghan tips also led to the capture of a person of interest.
"Due to the gallantry of the men and their overwhelming fire superiority, they were able to break the enemy's ability to continue the ambush, and were able to protect a family caught in the cross-fire," said the commander. "I'm extremely proud of the work of the commandos and USSF. This operation will lead to future success in ridding insurgents of the area."
Article by ISAF Joint Command