Partnership in Action: Operation TOR KANJAK 5

Strategic Insights -

In a significant operation, Afghan troops trained and mentored by British soldiers have taken the lead in clearing insurgents from the rugged area of Shin Kalay in Helmand province. Operation TOR KANJAK 5, launched under the cover of darkness, aimed to provide better security for the locals and the surrounding area. The operation involved Afghan National Army (ANA) soldiers, backed up by troops from 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment (1R IRISH), clearing compounds and insurgent firing points while others provided security to the flanks.

Key Takeaways:

  • Afghan troops, trained and mentored by British soldiers, took the lead in clearing insurgents from Shin Kalay in Helmand province.
  • Operation TOR KANJAK 5 involved 5 Afghan and British troops, including Lieutenant Jonathon Green from The Royal Irish Regiment, Lieutenant Abdul Matin from the Afghan National Civil Order Police (ANCOP), and Sergeant Muhammed Udin from the Afghan National Army.
  • The operation followed the military 'Rule of Three' principle, incorporating elements of all three security forces.
  • The Afghan and British troops cleared over 10 compounds and insurgent firing points, resulting in the capture and detention of a number of suspected insurgents.
  • The Afghan police held an impromptu public meeting outside a local shop, gathering intelligence and tracking down insurgent elements.
  • The operation culminated in the Governor of Nad-e-Ali district conducting his first shura (traditional Afghan public meeting) in the area for two years, attended by over 200 people.
  • Locals had been concerned about the presence of insurgents but felt powerless to stop them. The Afghan and British forces were able to reassure the local people and offer assistance with community projects.
  • Sergeant Muhammed Udin stated, "My ANA warriors have worked closely both with the British soldiers and the ANCOP policemen. This has been very effective as we each bring different skills."
  • Major Greg Murphy stated, "Afghan security forces were very much the lead on this operation... The highlight of this is that the Governor's Shura was able to take place without any ISAF security presence at all."

Statistics:

  • 5 Afghan and British troops were involved in Operation TOR KANJAK 5.
  • 10 compounds and insurgent firing points were cleared by the Afghan and British troops.
  • A number of suspected insurgents were captured and detained by the Afghan police.
  • The Governor's Shura was attended by over 200 people.
  • The Afghan and British troops spent a prolonged period engaging with local people, consulting them on their needs.
  • ISAF assisted with resources for the operation.

Sources:

  • Office of Army Prosecuting Authority
  • HT Media Ltd.