Copter crash in Afghanistan; Up to 24 feared dead

U.S. Chinook Helicopter Crashes in Afghanistan, CNN Reports

June 28 (Bloomberg) -- As many as two dozen U.S. troops may have been aboard a U.S. CH-47 Chinook helicopter that crashed in Asadabad, Afghanistan, Cable News Network reported, citing U.S. military officials.

The crash site is in darkness, CNN said. The helicopter is used to transport ground forces and supplies in combat operations, according to a U.S. Army Web site. The cargo area can accommodate as many as 33 fully equipped troops, according to the Army site.

The Pentagon told U.S. lawmakers on June 22 that insurgents in Afghanistan will step up attacks as the country's scheduled September legislative elections approach.

U.S. military officials have said they see increased aggression from the Taliban as the U.S. and Afghan militaries carry out more intensive patrols near the border with Pakistan. The Taliban regime was ousted from power in Afghanistan by U.S.- led forces in 2001

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