Summary
Following intelligence of an enemy convoy traveling from Dola to the Northern Checkpoint, two squads deployed to intercept and gather regional intelligence. After a successful pincer ambush, one vehicle was recovered despite heavy complications. Subsequent intelligence sweeps through Musakhan and Deraz identified a rival PMC group known as ION, established a clear distinction for our own designation as ATG, and resulted in the acquisition of a second vehicle during the return transit. The operation concluded with a combined defensive action alongside Lancer forces to repel a counter-attack on Maku.
Phase 1: Intelligence Gathering and Convoy Interception
Following intelligence indicating a convoy was travelling from Dola to the Northern Checkpoint, two squads were deployed. One squad moved to Herati to question the local population regarding individuals currently staying in Tebbi. After which they moved to the Northern Checkpoint and made contact with the civilians at that location. They are in possession of arms used by the local militia and seem to be willing to sell some. The second squad advanced to Landay to question the Elder about the convoy; the Elder had no information but agreed to report any future sightings.
The second squad then proceeded to Maku to coordinate with Lancer for surveillance on Dola. While exploring the area around the checkpoint, Lancer radioed that the convoy had departed Dola via a direct northern route.
An ambush was attempted between Zaranj and Landay. The convoy spotted the forces and opened fire on one squad positioned behind a rock. The second squad maneuvered north and then west to encircle the enemy. The combined pincer manoeuvre eliminated the hostile forces while preserving the vehicles.
The intent was to capture the vehicles for a future undercover operation into Dola. However, two of the four captured vehicles were rigged with explosives, and a third was crashed during transit. Only one UAZ was successfully recovered. Upon returning to Stronghold, a lack of prior communication regarding the successful vehicle capture caused confusion, resulting in a friendly fire incident. The UAZ was ultimately stored.
Phase 2: Westward Reconnaissance and Return Transit
Both squads deployed west to Musakhan to gather intelligence on a separate Private Military Company (PMC). They established contact with a local civilian to discuss a potential fuel deal, but the individual was reluctant to identify the local Elder. However, he did disclose that he had prior dealings with Westerners who utilized similar, yet distinct, vehicles. Following this discussion, an operator looked into the civilian’s residence. The civilian confronted the operator, accusing him of upsetting his wife and labelling him a pervert for looking at her feet. After several locals joined in the accusations, our squads left the town.
One squad moved into Musakhan North, but late-night conditions prevented further local contact. They proceeded west toward Khas but withdrew after taking enemy fire.
Both squads integrated and moved into Deraz, targeting the local hotel. After being halted at a checkpoint, the guard informed them that Western forces were barred entry due to prior misconduct. The squads convinced the guard they were a different entity, identifying themselves as ATG and learning the other PMC group was named ION. Inside the hotel, the squads were offered low-paying room-cleaning work. They acquired intelligence indicating the local Elder was asleep and favoured soft-spoken individuals.
During the return transit from Deraz, the squads encountered a militant patrol at the previous convoy engagement site. After drawing RPG fire, the squads split up and neutralized the patrol efficiently. A second UAZ was acquired from this engagement. Personnel at Stronghold were notified in advance, allowing the vehicle to be secured without further incident.
Phase 3: Defensive Action at Maku
Following a brief rest back at Stronghold, Lancer radioed that Maku was under attack from the southwest, suspected to be Dola forces. The squads responded immediately, repelling the assault alongside Lancer units. Following the engagement, high tensions and misunderstandings led to a falling out with the Lancer squad. Both squads subsequently returned to Stronghold.
