in contrast to the purely humanitarian operations carried out by the italians, the french engaged in armed patrols in an effort to cut off guerrilla groups from their rear bases in pakistan. on 15 august, a french patrol was dispatched to spēṟ kunday, but without exploring the surrounding passes. local villagers warned them not to stay, due to the presence of taliban, but the french announced their intention to return. thus, the guerrilla became aware of the french plans to reoccupy the area.