OP: BANTU

SITUATION BRIEF

MISSION
Combined UK/US forces deployed from Ghana into Ivory Coast Border Regions to:

• Train / Mentor wildlife rangers units and enhance jungle patrol capabilities

• Disrupt illegal poaching and trafficking networks

• Deter and monitor illegal mining operations

INTENT
Enable Wildlife Ranger Partner Forces to operate independently while minimising escalation with local populations

AREA OF OPERATIONS - AO
The AO spans the Ivory Coast Border Region, categorised by dense jungle and limited infrastructure. Terrain is restrictive and mobility is canalised along tight footpaths, rivers and illegal logging routes.

Key Terrain Features:

• River / Stream and Swamp Basins - seasonally flooded

• Abandoned logging and poacher camps as well as artisan mining sites

• Small clustered Villages and Ranger Outposts

ENEMY FORCES - OPFOR

Multiple non state actors operate within the AO:

• Poaching Syndicates

  • Lightly Armed

  • Operating in small mobile teams
    

• Bushmeat Networks

  • Local Hunters supplying regional black market demand

  • Use traps, snares and occasional firearms
    

• Illegal Mining Groups (Blood Diamonds)

  • Semi organised Militias controlling Mining pits

  • Armed Security Elements

  • Potential for hostilities if operations are disrupted
    

OPFOR generally avoid direct confrontations but will engage if threatened. High likelihood of ambushes and deception tactics.