International Security Assistance Force helps Afghan civilians wounded in improvised explosive device attack

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

05.25.2009

Courtesy Story

International Security Assistance Force HQ Public Affairs

KABUL, Afghanistan — An improvised explosive device placed by insurgents near the town of Qalat, Zabul province, today killed four Afghan civilians and wounded three others.

International Security Assistance Force troops responded to the incident and provided immediate first aid to the wounded Afghans.

ISAF aircraft then transported the wounded Afghans to an ISAF hospital for treatment.

This attack once again highlights the dangers of IEDs. The incident also shows the insurgent's lack of respect for Afghan lives by their placing of IEDs near areas populated by civilians.

IEDs target security forces throughout Afghanistan. It is, however, Afghan civilians who are most often affected, with IEDs indiscriminately killing and wounding innocent Afghans.

In fact, eighty percent of all civilian casualties are caused by the insurgents.

"ISAF values the lives of all Afghans, and we offer our condolences to the families of those civilians harmed by this callous attack. This is another example of how these deadly devices kill and wound more civilians than troops," said Capt. Mark Durkin Royal Navy, ISAF spokesperson.

"ISAF warns all Afghans to not approach IEDs, and to inform security forces of IED locations. We also encourage Afghans to contact the government authorities with any information regarding insurgents who place IEDs," added Durkin.

• Date Taken: 05.25.2009
• Date Posted: 05.25.2009 12:38
• Story ID: 34070
• Location: KABUL, AF