ISAF shows restraint during violent demonstrations in Meymaneh

On 7 February, a demonstration involving around 300 people took place outside ISAF's Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) compound in Meymaneh, Northern Afghanistan. 5 Norwegian troops were injured during today's incident, two have been evacuated to an ISAF medical facility in Mazar-e-Sharif, for further treatment; all five are now in a stable condition.

As events unfolded, the demonstrators became more hostile and when they tried to enter the PRT compound, ISAF troops used passive measures, releasing tear gas, in an attempt to disperse the crowd who were initially throwing stones. However, the violence by the demonstrators increased, setting alight a vacant neighbouring government building and ISAF vehicles, then firing shots and throwing grenades towards the PRT compound. As a result, ISAF troops fired warning shots into the air; avoiding any danger to the crowd. At no stage have NATO forces used lethal force; and ISAF troops have exercised maximum restraint in order to calm the situation.

ISAF is aware, that during this incident there were a number of civilian casualties, however at this stage we have no confirmed information regarding the nature and number of those injured and killed.

Quick Reaction Forces (QRF) from Mazar-e Sharif were deployed to Meymaneh to secure the airfield and to provide additional support to the PRT. Throughout this incident, ISAF has been supported by local Afghan National Police, who helped to secure the compound during the incident and tonight are providing the security patrols around the PRT.

There is no reason to think that Norwegian troops, in particular, were targeted. Demonstrations in Kabul and Herat also occurred; and this was a manifestation of a phenomenon that is taking place beyond Afghanistan as well, unrelated to the performance or image of particular NATO troops.

ISAF has built a strong relationship of trust with the Afghan people and we are confident that that trust remains. There should be no doubt of NATO's determination to carry forward the expansion of ISAF to the south this summer. The Alliance has made a long-term commitment to the people of Afghanistan, and that commitment will not waver.

Source: Nato

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