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A New Zealand serviceman has been injured in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan and is being brought home to recover.
The crash happened on January 16 and the serviceman was evacuated to Bagram Air Base for immediate treatment. He underwent a minor surgical procedure, the Defence Force said today.
Eight people were on board the USAID Bell 212 helicopter, including five members of the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT), and it was en-route to a forward patrol base from the main Kiwi base in Bamyan province when the accident happened.
Commander Joint Forces Major General Rhys Jones said the accident highlighted the extraordinary working conditions the NZPRT face in Afghanistan.
"I am grateful that no one was seriously injured and that all personnel are now safe," he said.
The reason for the crash is being investigated.
- NZPA
