Major James Joshua Bowman (left), Lieutenant Neal Turkington and Corporal Arjun Purja [Picture: via MOD]

An Afghan soldier who killed three UK troops on Monday has apparently claimed to have been acting alone.

The BBC says a man in Kabul contacted them reportedly saying he had not been influenced by the Taliban, but opened fire because he was angered by British conduct in Afghanistan.

The MoD says the accounts should NOT be accepted at face value.

It comes as tributes are being paid to three Kent-based soldiers killed in Afghanistan by a rogue member of the Afghan National Army.

Major James Joshua Bowman, Lieutenant Neal Turkington and Corporal Arjun Purja Pun were from 1st Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles based in Folkestone.

The Ministry of Defence issued a series of statements on behalf of their family and colleagues.

Corporal Pun's wife, Durga, said: "Arjun Puja Pun was a tremendous husband.

"He was proud to be a soldier and died doing a job he loved.

"We are devastated by the loss of Arjun who was a loving husband and father.

"We are proud of the fact that Arjun was prepared to do his duty helping the people of Afghanistan."

Lt Turkington's family said: "Our family is devastated with the news of Neal's death in Afghanistan on July 13.

"One of Neal's proudest moments was hearing that he had been commissioned to join the Royal Gurkha Rifle's Regiment.

"He felt honoured and privileged to serve with such distinguished, courageous and loyal men.

"Neal was jovial, kind, considerate and loyal to his family and friends. Our family were inspired by his presence, and generosity.

"He was relentless and steadfast in his pursuit of those causes he believed in with his passion for making a difference whatever the circumstance.

"We are all so proud of him - we couldn't have asked for a finer son, brother and friend."

Major Bowman's family said: "He was the best possible son and brother who will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. "He loved the Army and was very proud of the selfless work that he and his Company were doing."