DAR AL ISLAM-AFGHANISTAN: DENYING SAFE HAVEN TO THE TALIBAN

ROYAL MARINES TRICK TALIBAN
by PETER HARRISON

Hundreds of Royal Marines have been involved in a massive operation across uncharted Afghan territory attacking the Taliban.

More than 600 members of the Taunton-based 40 Commando fought alongside other troops in the area around Sapwan Kala in the Upper Sangin Valley of the Helmand Province, southern Afghanistan.

Under Operation Ghartse Dagger, British forces were responding to intelligence reports which suggested insurgents fleeing Musa Qal'eh after its fall at the end of last year had moved into the area to regroup after their defeat.

Major Dan Cheesman RM, the officer commanding Bravo Company, said: "Our intent was twofold: demonstrate once more to the Taliban that the Government and ISAF are stronger than them; and convince the people that the Government and ISAF are stronger than the Taliban.

"The operation was designed to deny the Taliban a possible safe haven and to prevent them regaining the ability to mount attacks against Sangin, which has seen considerable redevelopment since security improved under the Royal Marines."

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