Courtesy Australian Government Department of Defence
Governance and stability has been restored to the town of Gizab, Afghanistan, after the local community rose up and rejected the influence of Taliban insurgents, with assistance from Afghan and Australian forces.
A number of insurgents were killed and captured in a series of firefights involving Gizab locals, the Afghan Provincial Police Reserve and members of the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG).
The Commanding Officer of the SOTG, Lieutenant Colonel P, said that winning combat operations was only half the challenge:
“A unique opportunity existed to provide a longer-term solution, because the local population was clearly emboldened to reject the insurgents and establish legitimate governance in Gizab,” Lieutenant Colonel P said.
“Within the space of a few days, Gizab went from gun fighting to relative stability,” he said.
Following the fighting the SOTG escorted a group of Afghan government officials, including the Provincial Governor and tribal leaders, into Gizab. A large meeting was held in the centre of town to nominate a new District Governor, a new District Chief of Police, and deputies.
The insurgent leaders have now been removed and the town is working with the Government of Afghanistan and ISAF to establish a permanent police force in the town in the near future.
Photos: Australian Operations in Southern Afghanistan
Related Sites:
The patrol through Sarregin village was designed to enhance the relationship between Australian troops and local farmers by providing an opportunity to informally chat about local conditions. The soldiers were well received by the local farmers who pointed out that they welcome regular patrols as they helped deter insurgents in the area. Patrols of this nature have become commonplace for the troops of MTF1 as they continue to build relationships with local populations in the province. (Photo courtesy Australian Government Department of Defence)