DynCorp Accused of Theft, Threats in Afghanistan

ALEXANDRIA, VA. (CN) - DynCorp International cheated an Afghani construction company of $4.4 million, stole $2.5 million in equipment, and used armed mercenaries to drive Afghani workers off the Gambiri military base in Jalalabad, says the construction company in Federal Court.

The Mainawal Rahal Building & Construction Co. says in its complaint, "This conduct has not only hampered the fight against the mutual enemies of Afghanistan and the United States, it has soured the trust and goodwill of the Afghan government and tribal leaders," the complaint states.

The military base sits at a strategic site from which the U.S. conducted its failed hunt for Osama bin Laden at Tora Bora.

Mainawal says DynCorp's actions ruined it financially and damaged U.S.-Afghani relations.

Joining Mainawal as plaintiffs are eight John Does, workers who allegedly were threatened, assaulted and falsely imprisoned by DynCorp's mercenaries.

Mainawal claims DynCorp defrauded it and breached contract, and that its use of mercenaries to assault Mainawal workers violated the United National Covenant Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhumane or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

Mainawal demands $6.8 million, and punitive damages. It is represented by John Beins of Chevy Chase, Md.

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