UK: Marine and soldier shot dead by rogue Afghan army gunman

UK: A Royal Marine and a soldier have been shot dead by a rogue Afghan National Army gunman.

Afghan military leaders said it was unclear whether the gunman was acting alone or had been “influenced by the enemy”.

In a similar incident a third serviceman - not British - was shot dead by Afghan security forces.

Yesterday’s three deaths appear to be the latest in a string of “green on blue” attacks in which members of the Afghan security forces have opened fire on international allies.

The Marine and the Adjutant General’s Corps soldier were serving as part of Task Force Helmand when the ANA soldier opened fire at the gate of the British headquarters in Lashkar Gar city, southern Afghanistan.

The families of the servicemen - who are expected to be named today - have been told.

ANA Brigadier General Sherin Shah said the “incident which involved armed conflict by one of the ANA members of the Fourth Kandak of 3-215 Brigade was a tragic event”.

He added: “The incident is still under investigation and it is unclear if the action was planned or influenced by the enemy or if he acted alone.

“Either way it is with the deepest regret that two Isaf (International Security Assistance Force) soldiers who came to our country to provide security are now dead.”

According to the Associated Press the attacker had been in close contact with insurgents and had informed the Taliban of his plan.

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