17/02/2009

Rifles Solider Killed In Helmand

A solider from the 1st Battalion The Rifles has been killed while on patrol in the southern Afghan city of Helmand

The Ministry of Defence said the solider had been on foot near Lashkar Gah, close to the British forces' HQ in the region.

It is believed the solider had been on a joint mission with UK and Afghan troops when the attack happened.

The defence ministry did not say when the attack occurred.

So far 145 UK troops have died since the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001.

Forces have faced strong resistance from Taliban fighters who have terrorised the region.

Around 8,000 UK troops are currently stationed in the troubled country. The majority of personnel are based in Helmand, a dry and remote southern province.

(PR/BMcC)

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