British soldier missing from Afghan base found shot dead

Prime Minister David Cameron, on an unannounced visit to Afghanistan, was said to be “deeply saddened” after the body of the serviceman, from The Highlanders, 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, was discovered.

The soldier’s disappearance had forced Mr Cameron to abandon part of his visit to military bases in Afghanistan so that resources could be deployed to the search.

He had been reported missing from a military checkpoint in the early hours of yesterday, and several Taliban groups claimed responsibility for his death.

Downing Street sources said Mr Cameron was “deeply saddened” by the news.

Nato spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Tim Purbrick said: “He had suffered gunshot wounds. His exact cause of death is still to be established, and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance and death are currently under investigation. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”

The still-unnamed soldier is the British armed forces’ 375th fatality during the decade-long campaign. His next of kin have been informed.