BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security Forces, advised by Coalition forces conducting security patrols in Helmand Province stopped two potential insurgent attacks Jan. 20. 
 Near the village of Tambah in Narh-e Saraj District, a suspected insurgent was seen placing an improvised explosive device on a frequently-traveled roadway near the Helmand River.  After observing the illegal activity and ensuring no civilians were in the immediate area, Afghan National Army soldiers called in Coalition aircraft to drop precision-guided munitions on the IED location.  The secondary explosion, caused by the explosive material in the IED, confirmed the weapon’s destruction, making the roadway safe for civilians traveling in the area.
 Just a few kilometers north of Tambah, near the village of Qadar Kalay, also in Narh-e Saraj District, credible intelligence indicated that a group of insurgent spotters occupying an enemy observation post were coordinating further attacks against ANSF and Coalition soldiers.  Afghan National Army soldiers responded by calling in Coalition aircraft to eliminate the insurgent location.
  Tambah is a known center for insurgent activity.  During a security patrol through the village, the combined force found several 105mm and 82mm shell casings, IED-making materials, and a cache of drugs.
 “Hiding weapons and drugs in civilian areas is a continuing tactic used by insurgents placing innocent civilians in danger,” explained Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Coalition spokesman.  “Helmand Province has been an insurgent stronghold for a while.  In December, ANSF liberated the Musa Qaleh area, returning the village to Afghan citizens.  While pockets of insurgent activity remain in the area, ANSF remain committed to removing this threat from the Helmand Province.”