On 3 August 2017, Anti-Government Elements including Taliban and local self-proclaimed Daesh/Islamic State affiliated fighters launched an attack against Mirza Olang village in Sayyad district, Sari Pul province, where fighting continued until 5 August. The village, known as ‘the gate to Sayyad’, lies deep in a long valley. Its southern entrance is near to the border of neighbouring Faryab province and is located 20 km south of the Sayyad district administrative centre. Much of the area surrounding the district administrative centre has been under control of Anti-Government Elements for more than one year.