Afghan national security forces along with members of the International Security Assistance Force began a major security operation recently in the Gor Tepa region of Kunduz province in northern Afghanistan.
The combined operation, which began Dec. 28, is focused on denying insurgents freedom of movement throughout the area.
Members of the Afghan national police, Afghan national army and local Arbaki fighters have partnered with soldiers of 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment from the 10th Mountain Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team in order to bring security to the region.
Together the joint force advanced from a remote checkpoint outpost that was established in a Gor Tepa neighborhood last October
Gor Tepa has been a stronghold for the insurgency in the ISAF’s Regional Command - North.
During the eight day mission, ANSF members have been working hand-in-hand with soldiers of 1-87 Inf. as they push forward establishing new checkpoints along a main road and rooting out insurgents that are holding out in the area.
These new checkpoints, manned by members of the ANSF, will help provide a lasting security along the thoroughfare and allow the community to travel safely.
One of the main objectives for the operation is securing the main road which is considered a main route into the north and northwest regions of the Kunduz province. This road has been a major hazard for not only ANSF and ISAF, but the local community as well due to the number improvised explosive devices emplaced by insurgents.
As part of the operation, combat engineers from the 2nd Engineer Battalion have been working steadily to seek out, and destroy numerous IEDs along the route.
This combined effort has opened and secured more than 6,000 meters the road.
Security forces will continue to provide security by disposing of materials that could harm the members of the community.
In addition to providing security, humanitarian assistance is also being provided to the local residents.
The efforts of this combined team operation are aimed at restoring safety and stability to the area, developing the local economy and expanding the reach of the Afghan government.
Article by Sgt. 1st Class John Queen, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs