Royal Marine killed by roadside bomb

A Royal Marine has been killed by a roadside bomb in southern Afghanistan.

The marine, from 42 Commando, died yesterday on a foot patrol in Sukmanda in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province, the Ministry of Defence said.

His death took the number of British troops who have died since operations in Afghanistan began in 2001 to 380.

The family of the serviceman - who is expected to be named today - have been informed.

Lieutenant Colonel Tim Purbrick, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: "It is with deep regret that I have to inform you of the death of a Royal Marine from 42 Commando Royal Marines in the Sukmanda area of Nahr-e Seraj district in Helmand province.

"The Royal Marine was part of a foot patrol deployed to disrupt insurgent activity in this contested area and so permit the expansion and development of governance.

"His patrol was providing a security screen for other patrols when, leading his patrol, he was fatally injured by an improvised explosive device.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."

PA