LASHKARGAH - A group of US forces who have been stationed in Bost Airport in southern Helmand province have returned back to Shurab Base situated 60 kilometres from Lashkargah, the provincial capital, a reliable source said on Saturday.
A security official who wished to go unnamed told Pajhwok Afghan News the US forces vacated the Bost Air port and returned to their base last night.
According to the source the US forces have pledged to continue support to Afghan Security forces and perform its tasks based on a schedule.
Bashir Ahmad Shakir, a provincial council member, said the presence and absence of foreign forces would not have any impact on security situation. Foreigners should help equip the Afghan forces and enable them to ensure law and order in the best possible way, he added.
He doubted foreign forces intensions saying some district felt to Taliban despite the foreign forces were present in Helmand.
He said residents of Lashkargah were ready to serve in the ranks of security forces but he regretted officials concerned paid no attention for recruitment of professional individuals.
Attaullah Afghan, provincial council secretary, said US forces could operate in Lashkargah from Shurab base any time there was a need for an operation.
Resout Support (RS) Spokesman Charlie Cleveland said the US troops had a none-combat mission in Lashkar Gah. US troops provide Training, Advise, and Assistance help to the Police Zone Headquarters based in Lashkar Gah.
“As we said when they moved into Lashkar Gah, this was a temporary mission.  They've concluded their current work and returned to their base.  But, they will be prepared to return to Lashkar Gah
whenever they are needed,” he said.(Pajhwok)