Security Council moves toward improved cooperation
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 22, 2009
RELEASE # 030
Security Council moves toward improved cooperation
By Army Sgt. Amber Robinson
4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division
BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (March 22, 2009) - Members of the Logar Security Council met March 18 to discuss current and evolving issues in the province.
The council meeting was hosted by Army Lt. Col. Dan Goldthorpe, 3rd Squadron, 71st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division. The remainder of the council was comprised of Logar Governor Antigullah Ludin, Task Force Spartan Commander Col. David B. Haight, Afghan National Police leaders and Czech Provincial Reconstruction Team commander. The council's purpose is to resource one another in the ongoing effort to strengthen security in Logar.
Recent military operations, which led to the capture of 12 insurgents, were discussed most in-depth. All individuals captured were found with evidence, which linked them directly to Taliban activity.
Although the missions have been successful, the capture of these criminals has caused unrest throughout the province. Local news outlets released inaccurate accounts of military conduct, stating unreasonable force was used and innocent Afghans were taken into custody. These accounts have spurned animosity, which eventually led to a protest March 16 in Baraki Barak, resulting in protestors shooting at the Afghan National Security Forces.
The task of the council is to propose ways to combat not only the actions of the Taliban, but the repercussions of misinformation on the battlefield.
"There are false accusations out there," said Col. Jay Peterson, deputy commander for TF Spartan. "The enemy understands the strength of information in a counter insurgency and is twisting it to their advantage."
Another concern council members must work to rectify are logistical issues for Afghan National Police and Afghan National Army.
"The larger organizations that are responsible for ANA and ANP logistics must be re-addressed in order to maintain the readiness of the ANSF,"
Peterson said. "The ANA and ANP have begun to gain solid ground as a security force with their country's best interest at heart. Making sure they have what they need to accomplish the mission successfully is a huge concern."
Afghan locals from Logar have come a long way since TF Spartan first arrived in the area, leaders said. Soldiers of the brigade have taken various steps to improve the province, establish trust and train with the local security forces.
Although security has improved, it will take longer for the people to take solace in their government and fully trust their police force. The council's job is to make sure that mission is underway to the best of their ability at all times. Council members have an ultimate goal, to put their minds together and embrace resolve for major issues that hinder joint progress.
"The meeting created a mutual respect for every agency that is trying to create a more secure Logar," said Peterson. "All seemed dedicated to the task and showed admiration to each other and the information each brought to the table will help increase the cooperative effort between Coalition forces and all Afghans."
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BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (March 21, 2009) - Lt. Gen. Attiqullah Lodeen, the governor of Logar, tours the Koshi District, March 4 with other government officials. Lodeen was in Koshi to open a new district center for the region. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Matthew Thompson)