Explosion In Sinai - NZ Defence Force Member Involved

New Zealand Defence Force
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa

Media Release

26 April 2006

Explosion In Sinai - New Zealand Defence Force Member Involved

An explosion has occurred close to North Camp, in the Sinai Peninsula. A member of the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) serving with the Sinai based Multi National Force and Observers (MFO) was involved in the incident.

The NZDF member has not sustained any injuries. He was undertaking a driving task at the time of the explosion. He was taken back to North Camp soon after the incident.

The explosion occurred at approximately 9pm NZ time (11am local time).

26 NZDF members are currently serving with the MFO. Further information about the NZDF contribution to the MFO can be found at www.nzdf.mil.nz under Operations.

Information update will be provided tomorrow morning (27 April).

New Zealand Defence Force
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa
Media Release
27 April 2006

Update: Explosion In Sinai - New Zealand Defence Force Member Involved

The New Zealand Defence Force member involved in a suicide bombing attack in the Sinai Peninsula last night is New Zealand Army Private Joshua Roewen. Private Roewen, who has been in the Army for three years, is 21 years old.

Private Roewen deployed to the Multi National Force and Observers (MFO) in February this year. He is on a six-month tour of duty. This is his first overseas deployment. His home Camp is Burnham based 3rd Land Force Group where he has been based for the past three years as an Army Driver.

The suicide bombing attack, which targeted the MFO vehicle Private Roewen was driving during a routine task, damaged the vehicle. Private Roewen 's quick actions assisted in getting the vehicle away from the danger area. Neither Private Roewan nor the two passengers sustained any injuries in the attack.

Private Roewen is now located at his base, North Camp. He is coping well with the situation and is undergoing critical incident management support from MFO staff, which occurs routinely after any significant event. He is expected to remain with the MFO to complete his deployment.

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