[jeffers]

The initial erroneous reports seem to be settling down towards two main engagements, one near Azam Warsak, SW of Kaloosha, and one in the northwestern highlands of the Shakai Valley, specifically around Mantoi and Santoi. Mantoyee and Mantoi are one and the same, as are Sangtoi, Santoi, and Santoyee.

All are marked, along with several other villages of possible interest, in a new map at:

http://host1.in-motion.net/~jefft/tech/Mapping/afghanistan/index.html

Scroll down to the third line, looking for "Mantoi 6/13/2004"

I have adjusted the layout of the page somewhat to resolve some alignment issues noted at lower resolutions, and the page has been tested for monitors set at 800x600, 1024x768, and 1280x1024. The maps are optimized for 1280x1024 resolution, those using lower resolutions may find that image browsing software with zoom and pan capabilities increases the utility of the maps.

Regarding the operations themselves, it appears that the enemy intention is to hold foothill villages guarding the main ridgelines in the area. Note that both Mantoi and Sangtoi are located in terrain chokepoints and both guard numerous approaches to high passes with ridgeline access.

[Dog]

As the helicopters and planes were seen flying over region, fresh troops of army and paramilitary forces have reportedly been dispatched to Shakai and they have taken positions at various points including nearby mountains.

Didn't you say something about the ridgelines earlier?

[Dog]

I have one question about the Mantoi map.....how close is the Afghanistan-Pakistan border in that map?