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27 April 2006
AMSTERDAM — A Dutch reconnaissance patrol clashed briefly with unknown gunmen in the southern Afghan Province of Uruzgan, it was reported on Thursday.
The incident occurred on 24 April and was the first hostilities of its kind faced by the advance party securing the area pending the arrival of the full force in the weeks ahead.
“There were no injuries on the Dutch side in the firefight. It is unclear whether there were regrettably casualties on the enemy side, but this cannot be ruled out,” The Defence Ministry in The Hague said.
The Dutch patrol was able to complete its mission and return to its base at Tarin Kowt after contact with the enemy was broken off.
The Netherlands is to deploy 1,400 troops in the coming months as part of an international force in Afghanistan.
[Copyright Expatica News + ANP 2006]
Subject: Dutch news