Baby Jannik sits happily on the lap of British WO1 Peter McNab, Scots Guards, after being rescued from a rioting mob by NATO troops in Kabul
[Picture: MOD]
Five-month-old Jannik, whose German parents are part of the European Union delegation to Afghanistan, was among 21 diplomats and their families, plucked to safety by NATO troops, as rioting broke out in Kabul on Monday 29 May 2006.
The EU compound, in the Diplomatic Quarter of the city, came under threat as trouble erupted in the city. Rampaging crowds stoning Afghan security forces, and looted and burned dwellings and businesses.
As the situation on the ground worsened, Head of Delegation, Karl Harbo, appealed for help and ISAF commander, Lieutenant General David Richards, despatched a troop of British Royal Marines.
Captain Rob Newton, who led the rescue, said the mission through the dangerous streets of Kabul went like clockwork.
"We managed to get in there, secure the street and extract the families within minutes. They were very glad to see us. They had had a rough time and they were quite shaken by their experience," he said.
Thanking the NATO troops, Head of Delegation, Karl Harbo, added:
"We are extremely grateful to all those involved in the rescue. It was a tense time."
Lt Gen Richards was also delighted with the success of the mission.
"This was not a straightforward task. It carried a significant element of risk and I am very pleased that everyone is now safe," he said.