NZ soldier injured in East Timor

A New Zealand soldier has suffered a minor injury in the East Timorese capital Dili.

The Defence Force said he was hit by a dart fired by a youth while out on a routine patrol in Hera.

The dart, which struck the soldier in the thigh causing a superficial injury, had been fired at the New Zealanders as they dispersed a group of around 20 youths.

The soldier was treated by a medical officer before returning to his platoon. Several youths have been detained as a result of the incident.

"Its business as normal" said Lieutenant Colonel Jeremy Harker, NZ Senior National Officer in Dili.

"Our soldiers are trained for operations of this nature. This was a minor incident and the soldier concerned will be back on patrol within the next 24 hours"

- HERALD ONLINE STAFF