Thursday, 5 November 2009

Australian Special Forces have maintained pressure on the Taliban insurgency through striking and disrupting key insurgent strongholds. These strongholds have been responsible for the distribution of arms, ammunition, equipment and fighters across southern Afghanistan.

The operation, conducted in mid October by the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG), Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) and other coalition forces resulted in the seizure of weapons, improvised explosive devices (IED) and IED components, and large quantities of munitions.

The subsequent destruction of these munitions means they can no longer be used against the local Afghan population and coalition forces.

The raid also recovered stolen Afghan Army uniforms, medical kits, communications equipment and around 100 kg of opium resin, a key source of funding for the insurgency throughout Afghanistan.

The Commander of Australian Forces in the Middle East, Major-General Mark Kelly, said the success of this operation will have a positive impact on the security of the civilian population and of ANSF and coalition forces across southern Afghanistan.

“This stronghold has, until now, provided a secure base area from which to sustain the insurgency throughout southern Afghanistan,” said Major General Kelly.

“What this operation says very clearly to the insurgency is that it doesn’t matter where you are, we can find you, and strike you.”

Major-General Kelly said the complex operation was well supported by coalition partners and its success reflects the excellent operational cooperation the SOTG has with the ANSF and other coalition forces.

“It also highlights our commitment to using the full suite of our Special Forces to protect the local population, ADF elements and to work in partnership with other coalition forces.”

Imagery is available on the Defence website at:

http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opslipper/images/gallery/2009/1105/index.htm

ENDS