Defence is investigating an incident that occurred in Afghanistan recently during which an Afghan child is suspected of having been bitten by an Australian force element’s search dog.
The child and his mother were evacuated by aero-medical helicopter to a nearby medical facility after the incident occurred.
The child has now been assessed to be in a stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery. Both the child and his mother have returned to their home.
A follow on medical appointment will occur to ensure the child’s recovery continues.
Defence deeply regrets any injuries to civilians.
Further details regarding the incident cannot be provided publicly at this time as the operation remains ongoing.
In line with policy, Defence is now investigating the incident to ensure that all known facts are understood and assessed against the conditions on the ground that day.
Defence will provide further detail on the incident when the operation has concluded, and again once the investigation has been completed and its findings have been considered.
Media contact:
Defence Media Operations – 02 6127 1999