19 May 2006
Two New Zealand Army soldiers injured in Wednesday evening’s ammunition related incident that occurred while they were taking part in an exercise in the Waiouru training area, remain in hospital.
One soldier was transferred to Wellington Hospital last night for surgery to remove a small piece of shrapnel. He remains in a stable condition with throat injuries.
The second soldier remains in Palmerston North Hospital where he is undergoing further surgery. He remains in a serious but stable condition. He has multiple injuries.
The soldiers belong to Victor Company, 1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment based in Linton Military Camp. Victor Company deployed to Waiouru on Tuesday (16 May) for a 12 day training exercise. The company has remained in Waiouru and will continue their training although further planned live firing has been suspended.
A Court of Inquiry is underway. Military Police and ammunition specialists are at the incident site today. The inquiry is expected to take some time as there are many technical details that need to be fully investigated.
ENDS
For further information please contact Major Denise Mackay, Defence Public Relations, 04 496 0285 or 021 478 574.