Afghanistan: Killing of Contract Personnel

Afghanistan: Killing of Contract Personnel (Taken Question)

Question: Can you confirm that five Afghans were killed today who worked for a U.S. contractor?

Answer: We can confirm that five Afghans were killed during a shooting attack today at an alternative livelihood project in Lashkar Gah, in southern Helmand province. Two of the five victims were Afghan employees of Chemonics, a U.S. Agency for International Development contractor that provides training and alternatives to poppy growing for Afghan farmers in areas where poppy cultivation is widespread.

We extend our condolences to the families and friends of the victims, and to their colleagues at Chemonics. An investigation by Afghan authorities into this incident is underway. Our Embassy in Kabul will monitor the progress of the investigation.

2005/529 Released on May 18, 2005 Taken Question Richard Boucher, Spokesman Washington, DC May 18, 2005 Question Taken at May 18, 2005 Daily Press Briefing