LOC11:47
08:47 GMT
BAGHDAD, March 2 (KUNA) -- An Iraqi teenager was killed during an
engagement approximately 30 kilometers south of Samarra on February 29, said
the Multi-National Force (MNF) on Sunday.
In a statement, the MNF said AH-46 Apache pilots identified six suspected
improvised explosive device (IED) emplacers digging on a road known to have a
past history of IED attacks on Iraqi Army and coalition force soldiers.
"After receiving confirmation that no coalition forces were in the area,
the Apache aircrew engaged the suspects. Iraqi Army and coalition force
soldiers were then ordered to investigate the area at ground level," it said.
It added that about 40 individuals, who were located at a nearby house,
told the soldiers that six boys were allegedly digging roots for firewood.
No one was detained and no evidence of IED materials was located.
"Coalition forces sincerely regret when any innocent civilian is killed
during our operations, and the boy's family has our deepest condolences," said
Maj. Peggy Kageleiry, the MNF division's spokesperson. "We only engage what we
believe to be hostile threats and take every precaution to protect innocent
civilians, specifically to minimize the chances of a tragedy like this."
The incident is under investigation. (end)
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