FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 13, 2008                                                                            

Release Number 20081312-03

Coalition forces ambushed during reconnaissance patrol

KABUL, Afghanistan –  Coalition forces conducting a night-time dismounted reconnaissance patrol in Deh Rawood district, Uruzgan Province, approximately 125 km north of Kandahar, were ambushed with small-arms, machine-gun and rocket-propelled grenade fire, Dec. 10.

Coalition forces returned fire with small-arms and were able to successfully disengage from enemy contact.

There have been unconfirmed reports that two men and one woman may have been killed as a result of the engagement.

Coalition forces reported the incident to local officials and will conduct a key leader engagement with local tribal elders to discuss the incident today.

“We regret any loss of innocent life and express our condolences to their families,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, a U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesperson. “Coalition forces work diligently to prevent any loss of life and take these matters seriously.”

The incident is under joint investigation with local officials.

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United States Forces Afghanistan’s mission, in coordination with NATO’s International Security Assistance Force, is to conduct operations to defeat terrorist networks and insurgents by developing effective governance and building the Afghan National Security Force.  Effective security throughout the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan facilitates continued regional stability and increases economic development for the people of Afghanistan.

Contact Information – US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs Office

Tel +93 (0) 799 51 2919 or cell phone 0093 (0) 788 189 049

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