KABUL, Afghanistan — An investigation is underway following unconfirmed reports of civilian casualties in Khas Uruzgan, Uruzgan province, Aug. 7.
A team of Afghan national army and international security forces positively identified an insurgent on a ridgeline near an ANA base. The individual was observing operations and collecting information in an area known to be a point of origin for rocket attacks on the base. In response, the forces launched mortars; however, one mortar fell short, near a populated area.
Approximately two hours after the incident, residents of the village told base personnel that two people were killed by a mortar round. Local authorities were immediately informed, and a joint team began the investigation .
The loss of any innocent life is regrettable, and International Security Assistance Forces and Afghan forces will continue to make all efforts to avoid civilian casualties.
ISAF is a key component of the international community's engagement in Afghanistan, assisting the Afghan authorities in providing security and stability and creating the conditions for reconstruction and development.