Soldier receiving treatment after accident in Iraq

Soldier receiving treatment after accident in Iraq

An Australian soldier deployed to Operation OKRA is receiving treatment at a Coalition medical facility as a result of an accidental discharge of his own weapon in Taji, Iraq.

Initial indications are that the soldier sustained the non life-threatening wound while exiting a vehicle at the Taji Military Complex north of Baghdad. There are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the accident.

The soldier's family has been contacted and is receiving support.

Acting Chief of the Defence Force, Vice Admiral (VADM) Ray Griggs said no other Australian or Coalition personnel were involved in the incident.

“The soldier was immediately treated at the scene of the accident this morning (Iraq time) by his mates and moved to the base Coalition medical facility for emergency treatment,” VADM Griggs said.

“The soldier underwent surgery and is expected to be transferred for further medical treatment.”

“Defence will continue to provide ongoing support to the soldier's family and colleagues, particularly those personnel who provided immediate aid after the accident.”

Further details regarding the soldier's condition will not be released for privacy reasons.

Media contact:

Defence Media: (02) 6127 1999