NZ Soldiers Injured In Afghanistan

New Zealand Defence Force
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa

Media Release

Wednesday October 23, 2002

NZ Soldiers Injured In Afghanistan

Air Marshal Bruce Ferguson, Chief of Defence Force, stated today that three members of the NZ SAS contingent serving in Afghanistan were wounded yesterday when the vehicle in which they were patrolling ran over a landmine and was destroyed.

“Our three soldiers, the only occupants of the vehicle, were on a routine patrol when it hit the mine,” said Air Marshal Ferguson.

“Their injuries are serious but not life-threatening. They were quickly evacuated to a military hospital in theatre where they are being treated. All are in stable condition. One soldier will be returned to New Zealand via Germany while the other two are likely to remain in theatre with their unit.

“I will not be releasing their names but their families have been informed of the incident and the injuries sustained by the soldiers.

“The coalition forces value highly the work being undertaken by our soldiers in Afghanistan and we can all take pride in the professionalism they bring to their often difficult, and, as shown by this incident, dangerous task.”

For further media inquiries, the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Defence Force will be holding a media conference at 11.45 am, Minister’s office, Beehive 5.3

ENDS

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