28 Feb. 9 Mar. 2005

Large number of weapons seized in Afghanistan Topics NATO in Afghanistan Key links Website of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Between 28 February and 9 March, troops from the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) helped Afghan authorities secure over 3 tonnes of illegal arms. Working with Afghan security forces, ISAF troops found several large caches of illegal weapons. They also assisted in the collection of weapons surrendered by local factions. The secured weapons make for a deadly arsenal of artillery, rockets, heavy machine guns, small arms and light weapons, rocket propelled grenades, mines and ammunition. “This demonstrates that ISAF is acting robustly and effectively to prevent any hostile activity so as to ensure a safe and secure environment for all the people in our area of operations," said Lt. Gen. Ethem Erdagi, ISAF Commander. "This successful operation was due to the professionalism of the ISAF … troops and the Afghan Rapid Reaction forces. It is an excellent example of the close co-operation between ISAF and the Government of Afghanistan,” he stressed. ISAF explosive ordnance disposal experts examined the caches and seized weapons and helped to transport them safely to special locations, where they will be destroyed in a controlled manner.