(Eds: Adds second fatality)

LONDON (BNO NEWS) — Two more British soldiers were killed in southern Afghanistan, the British Ministry of Defence said on Monday.

One soldier from 2nd Battalion, serving as part of the The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, died from his wounds received as a result of small-arms fire that happened in the Musa Qaleh District of Helmand Province. Britain did not immediately provide more information on the incident, which happened on Sunday evening local time.

“It is my sad duty to have to inform you that a soldier from 2nd Battalion, The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, was killed by small-arms fire yesterday evening near Patrol Base Minden in the Musa Qualeh District of Helmand Province,” said Lieutenant Colonel David Wakefield, a spokesman for Task Force Helmand. “He was on a patrol after dark and was shot during a fire-fight. He died a soldier, doing his duty and among his fellow soldiers; his sacrifice will not be forgotten.”

Another soldier, from the 36 Engineer Regiment serving as part of the Counter-Improvised Explosive Device Task Force, was killed on Monday afternoon. He died from injuries sustained as a result of an explosion near Patrol Base Ezaray, to the north-east of Sangin District Centre in Helmand Province.

“It is with deep sadness I must confirm that a soldier from 36 Engineer Regiment, serving as part of the Counter-IED Task Force, was killed by an explosion this afternoon,” Lieutenant Colonel David Wakefield said. “He was engaged in IED clearance operations near Patrol Base EZARAY to the north-east of Sangin District Centre in Helmand Province. He was one of that unique breed who go out again and again to confront the dangers of IEDs, determined to save lives. His indomitable courage will not be forgotten.”

Next of kin have been informed and have asked for a 24 hour period of grace before further details are released. Britain said the deaths are not connected to Operation Moshtarak.

The latest casualties brings the total number of British troops killed in Afghanistan this year to 16, according to a BNO News count. In total, 68 coalition troops have died in Afghanistan this year, most of the casualties are from the United States and died during IED strikes.