International Security Assistance Force investigating possible civilian casualties near Haji Alem

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

05.31.2009

Courtesy Story

International Security Assistance Force HQ Public Affairs

KABUL, Afghanistan — An investigation has commenced into claims that an Afghan civilian was killed when an International Security Assistance Force patrol engaged suspected insurgents near Haji Alem, west of Lashkar Gah, Helmand province on May 26.

ISAF troops observed two men acting suspiciously. After a period of time, ISAF troops believed they were burying an improvised explosive device at a location known to have been previously used by insurgents. ISAF forces engaged them with a precision weapon.

Subsequently, it was reported by local Afghans that a man had been killed as a result of this action. ISAF takes any report of civilians being injured or killed very seriously and is now investigating this matter.

"Any civilian casualty, whatever the circumstance, is a source of considerable regret. Unlike enemy forces, ISAF do no target civilians. We do everything we can to avoid civilians being caught up in the fighting," said Lieutenant Colonel Nick Richardson, Task Force Helmand. "This incident, and any other in which there is a credible claim of civilian death, will be rigorously investigated."

• Date Taken: 05.31.2009
• Date Posted: 05.31.2009 01:29
• Story ID: 34327
• Location: KABUL, AF