Afghan killing: Pentagon says US soldier acted alone

Mar 13, 2012 |

Washington

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A day after the tragic incident of killing of 16 innocent Afghan civilians, including nine children by an American soldier in Kandahar, the Pentagon on Monday described the incident as isolated and preliminary investigation indicated that he acted on his own.

Refusing to reveal name of the US soldier or his whereabouts at this point of time, the Pentagon Press Secretary, George Little, said that a detailed investigation is currently underway to ascertain the details of the tragic incident.

"We believe at this time only one service member was involved. Beyond that, I really can't comment further," Little told reporters during an off-camera news conference noting that the investigation is currently going on.

Little asserted that whoever is found to be guilty of this horrific incident would be held accountable.

"This is an isolated incident. We will pursue accountability for the alleged actions of this service member," he said in response to a question.

However, he did not give any timeline of the investigation or when the soldier would be charged.

"We want to make sure we have a complete picture of what happened in this horrific even. And we prepare for possible criminal prosecution," Little said, adding that the name would be released only when the charges are filed.

Little, did not respond to questions related to the mental health of the soldier, as the matter was under investigation. At this time, he noted, it is not known what the motive of the soldier was when he killed 16 innocent Afghan civilians, including nine children and three women.

"We are deeply troubled it happened and are very interested in knowing why the alleged shooter might have done this. But the actions of one individual will not force the United States to change its fundamental strategy in Afghanistan," Little said, asserting that there is no change in US strategy with regard to the US.

"We continue to work closely with our Afghan partners throughout the country to pursue our common mission. We are mindful it wasn't just a US response to this incident. Our Afghan partners responded quickly as well, and we believe that is a sign of strength in the relationship," he said.

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