Afghanistan: Killing of Contract Personnel (Taken Question)

Answer:  We can confirm that five Afghans were killed during a shooting attack today at an alternative livelihood project in Lashkar Gah, in southern Helmand province.  Two of the five victims were Afghan employees of Chemonics, a U.S. Agency for International Development contractor that provides training and alternatives to poppy growing for Afghan farmers in areas where poppy cultivation is widespread. 

We extend our condolences to the families and friends of the victims, and to their colleagues at Chemonics.  An investigation by Afghan authorities into this incident is underway.  Our Embassy in Kabul will monitor the progress of the investigation.