Soldier dies in shooting accident in Helmand

Soldier from 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment was serving in Nad-e Ali district

A British soldier died in an "operational accident" in Afghanistan yesterday, the Ministry of Defence said. The soldier, from 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment, was serving in the Nad-e Ali district of Helmand.

The MoD said the accident was being investigated, but it is understood the solder died in hospital.

Next of kin have been informed. Lieutenant Colonel David Eastman, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: "It is my sad duty to report the loss of a soldier from 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment.

"The soldier was operating in the Nad-e Ali District of central Helmand province when he died as a result of an operational accident, which is currently under investigation.

"He has forfeited his life for the greater good, bringing hope to a people struggling to live their daily lives in peace his place in our thoughts is assured.

"Our heartfelt condolences are with his family and friends at this time of great loss."

A total of 351 UK military personnel have now died in Afghanistan since operations began in 2001.

The latest death brings the number of troops who have died as a result of accidents, illness, non-combat injuries or who have not yet officially been assigned a cause of death to 42.


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