Flagg
06-18-2004, 02:49 AM
Two NZ special forces personnel injured in Afghanistan
18 June 2004
BREAKING NEWS
Two New Zealand Special Forces soldiers were injured in an "operation" in Afghanistan today.
The soldiers were injured about midday New Zealand time in central Afghanistan and were evacuated by helicopter to a medical facility, the New Zealand Defence Force said in a brief statement.
Their condition was "satisfactory" and their families had been informed.
New Zealand Defence Force spokeswoman Commander Sandy McKie refused to make any further comment.
"We don't comment on operational security," she said.
Prime Minister Helen Clark and Defence Minister Mark Burton announced the deployment of about 50 Special Air Service (NZSAS) personnel to Afghanistan in March, for a term of up to 180 days.
Their missions included "long-range reconaissance and direct action" within the troubled country, operating in tandem with coalition forces, according to a parliament website.
TV3 reported tonight the injuries were a result of an exchange of fire with local people.
No further details were available.
At the time of the deployment, which extended New Zealand's involvement in the reconstruction of Afghanistan and the campaign against terrorism, Miss Clark said the country was in "clear need" of assistance.
None of the deployments were without risk, she said in a combined statement with Mr Burton.
They also confirmed the redeployment of a Royal New Zealand Navy frigate to the region and an Air Force Orion aircraft, if required.
18 June 2004
BREAKING NEWS
Two New Zealand Special Forces soldiers were injured in an "operation" in Afghanistan today.
The soldiers were injured about midday New Zealand time in central Afghanistan and were evacuated by helicopter to a medical facility, the New Zealand Defence Force said in a brief statement.
Their condition was "satisfactory" and their families had been informed.
New Zealand Defence Force spokeswoman Commander Sandy McKie refused to make any further comment.
"We don't comment on operational security," she said.
Prime Minister Helen Clark and Defence Minister Mark Burton announced the deployment of about 50 Special Air Service (NZSAS) personnel to Afghanistan in March, for a term of up to 180 days.
Their missions included "long-range reconaissance and direct action" within the troubled country, operating in tandem with coalition forces, according to a parliament website.
TV3 reported tonight the injuries were a result of an exchange of fire with local people.
No further details were available.
At the time of the deployment, which extended New Zealand's involvement in the reconstruction of Afghanistan and the campaign against terrorism, Miss Clark said the country was in "clear need" of assistance.
None of the deployments were without risk, she said in a combined statement with Mr Burton.
They also confirmed the redeployment of a Royal New Zealand Navy frigate to the region and an Air Force Orion aircraft, if required.