British soldier killed in Afghanistan explosion

AFP, London

A British soldier was killed by an explosion while on a foot patrol in Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence said here Monday.
The soldier, from The 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, died Sunday as a result of the blast in the town of Sangin, in the troubled southern Helmand province.
The death brings to 186 the number of British troops who have died since operations against the Taliban extremists began in October 2001. Of these, at least 154 were killed as a result of hostile action.
"It is with extreme sadness that I must report the death of a brave soldier," said Lieutenant Colonel Nick Richardson, spokesman for Task Force Helmand.
"He laid down his life for his country and the good people of Afghanistan.
"We grieve for his loss and join with his family and friends to mourn his passing."
Next of kin have been informed.
Britain has around 9,000 troops in Afghanistan, largely battling Taliban insurgents in Helmand.
British troops have been involved in Operation Panther's Claw, a major assault against the Taliban in the province.
The spike in deaths since the operation began in late June has revived debate in Britain about its involvement in Afghanistan and the standard of equipment available to troops.
Among the British soldiers killed so far in the assault was the first commanding officer to die in operations since 1991: Lieutenant Colonel Rupert Thorneloe, commanding officer of the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards.