Royal Gurkha Rifles killing a goat in Helmand Province, 2006

Photograph, Afghanistan, 2006.

A Gurkha rifleman prepares to behead a goat with his kukri as two comrades hold the animal. This 16-inch long blade is a formidable weapon and was traditionally used as a farming implement and for sacrificial ceremonies. As many Afghans speak Hindi, like the Gurkhas, the latter are able to build ties with the local people. This includes bartering for goats in the local markets!

Photograph from a compact disc of multi-media associated with Royal Gurkha Rifles, Helmand, Afghanistan, 2006.