Editor’s note: Stevens is assigned to Fort Polk’s 1st Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, currently deployed to Aghanistan. The 1st MEB is part of Task Force Warrior.
Task Force Warrior Security Forces joined with Afghan National Police for joint patrols in Shebar,Kahmard, Sayghan and other districts in Bamyan last month to increase security in the province during the transfer of operations between New Zealand Defense Force Task Group Crib 13 and TG Crib 14.
Capt. Rob Rodock, Task Force Warrior Afghanistan National Security Forces officer in charge, conducted district level ANP assessments, as well as key leader engagements, with district chiefs of police and shura leaders.
Security force Soldiers provided an obvious presence through mounted and dismounted patrols day and night.
Joint patrols provided opportunities for Task Force Warrior to train ANP while on joint missions.
“We trained them on their allotted police gear, armor, belts, identification, weapons and convoy patrol operations,” said SECFOR squad leader, Staff Sgt. Gabriel Castillo.
ANP requested support for higher fuel allocation, projects for hydropower versus generators at police stations and residences, and landline phones in areas where cell phones do not work.
Each district reported individual concerns including schools and wells for drinking water. “All the districts reported the ANP are doing a good job resolving local and family disputes, but each voiced the need for ANP training and more ANP,” said Rodock.
“Border areas are a concern,” he said, explaining that criminals and insurgents use the title “mullah” to enter an area and conduct criminal activities. They also dress in Afghan National
Security Force uniforms to attempt armed robberies along main supply routes. “Locals inform the police, who then escort foreigners out of the area or investigate with the National Directorate of Security,” said Rodock.
