Defence Investigation Into Afghan Allegations

Defence Investigation Into Afghan Allegations

Claims that up to nine Afghan locals living in the Baluchi Valley were injured during clashes between the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) and Taliban insurgents, are being investigated by the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

There are also unconfirmed reports that there may have been Afghan fatalities.

The claims were made after a series of significant battles between Taliban insurgents and Coalition forces, including Australian troops operating in the area.

Defence has commenced a formal investigation into the claims after reviewing its recent operations and identifying that the ADF could have been involved in the incident. This inquiry is likely to take several weeks to fully investigate the matter.

Defence is aware that ISAF and the Government of Afghanistan are conducting a separate joint investigation into the incident. Defence will cooperate with the joint investigation.

Taliban insurgents operating in the area at the time also engaged Coalition forces including Australian troops.

ENDS

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