UK soldier dies in Afghan blast

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A British soldier has died in an explosion in Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has said.

The ministry added that the man's family had been informed but had asked that no more details be released.

It said the soldier was patrolling on foot in Musa Qala, Helmand, when he was caught in an explosion and "tragically" died. No one else was injured.

His death brings the number of UK troops killed in operations in the country since 2001, to 96.

An spokesman said the MoD would not provide further updates "in line with the wishes of the family, who are in our thoughts at this difficult time."

Earlier this month Household Cavalry Trooper Ratu Babakobau, from Fiji, died when his patrol vehicle hit a landmine in Helmand Province.