The second Kent-based soldier to be killed in just two weeks has been named as Krishna Dura.

He is believed to be a senior NCO and was a member of the 2nd Battalion the Royal Gurkha Rifles.

He was killed on Saturday when a bomb went off under the Warrior armoured vehicle he was travelling in through the district of Musa Qala, Helmand Province.

Two other soldiers were seriously injured.

Rifleman Yubraj Rai, 28, also of 2RGR, died in a gun battle 11 days before.

Mr Dura’s wife and two daughters, who are living at Canterbury’s Howe Barracks, have been informed.

A statement from the Ministry of Defence said: “It is with great sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm that a soldier from 2nd Battalion the Royal Gurkha Rifles was killed as a result of an explosion in the Musa Qala District of Helmand Province on Saturday afternoon.

“He was taking part in a routine road move when the vehicle he was travelling in struck an explosive device.”

Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Commander Paula Rowe, added: “Everyone in Task Force Helmand is saddened by the death of this soldier.

"While there are no words to ease their loss, our heartfelt sympathies go to his family, friends and fellow soldiers at this difficult time.”

Cllr Dhan Gurung, of Folkestone Town Council, said: “This is a terrible tragedy for the community , not just the Nepalese but the whole of Folkestone. We have lost another Gurkha.

"On behalf of all of Folkestone Town Council I would like to extend my deepest sympathy and condolence for his family in this terrible time.”

Folkestone’s 2RGR are in Afghanistan as one of the Force Protection troops for the Commando Logistic Regiment, deployed as part of 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines.

The Logistic Regiment is based in Camp Bastion and is responsible for running the hugely complex combat logistic patrols, which deliver supplies and kit to the UK troops stationed in various parts of Helmand province.

The death of Mr Dura brings the total number of servicement killed in Afghanistan since 2001 to 125.