ISAF official report on Italian casualties in Afghanistan

ISAF Patrol attacked in IED incident
Release #2006-032 05 May 2006

Kabul, Afganistan

On the afternoon of May 5, a light armoured vehicle was struck by a roadside bomb, killing two soldiers and injuring four. It was part of an ISAF security patrol that was responding to a request for assistance from the Afghan National Police, after one of the police vehicles struck a mine.

All six soldiers were members of the Italian Army serving in ISAF as part of the Kabul Multi-national Brigade. The strike occurred 16 kilometres south of Kabul on Logar Road.

An ISAF Chinook helicopter evacuated the injured from the site to the German Medical hospital at Camp Warehouse. Quick reaction forces deployed to the scene. Investigative and site security operations continue.

Responding to the incident the commander of ISAF, Lt Gen David Richards, said,

"I wish to send my deepest sympathies to the families of those who were killed or injured. It is a great sadness that a small minority of criminals should attack soldiers who have travelled thousands of miles to help the people of Afghanistan, who overwhelmingly support the ISAF presence. This tragic incident will not affect our total determination and commitment to this mission, working in the closest co-operation with our comrades in the Afghan police and army."

Italian troops in the world (click pic to enlarge)

Through ISAF, NATO has been helping in creating a secure environment, developing Afghan security structures, identifying reconstruction needs, as well as training and building up future Afghan security forces.

ISAF Forces will not be deterred in their important work to support the Government and people of Afghanistan and will never allow these criminal elements to interfere with the democratic process of the country.