15/01/2009

Two UK Troops Killed In Afghanistan

Two British servicemen have been killed by an explosion in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed.

The pair - one from 29 Command Regiment Royal Artillery and a marine from 45 Commando Royal Marines - were killed by an explosion in Helmand Province.

They were killed during an operation against enemy forces north east of Gereshk in central Helmand last night.

Spokesperson for Task Force Helmand, Commander Paula Rowe, said: "The tragic loss of these two brave servicemen is a bitter blow to Task Force Helmand. Our thoughts and prayers are with their family, friends and all those who served with them at this difficult time."

Next of kin have been informed.

The most recent deaths bring the number of British forces to die since the start of operations in October 2001 to 141.

(JM/BMcC)

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