Canberra (TDI): A highly decorated former Australian special forces soldier has been arrested over allegations of murdering unarmed prisoners during his deployment in Afghanistan, authorities confirmed on Tuesday following a long-running war crimes investigation.
The Australian Federal Police said the 47-year-old former soldier, widely identified in local media as Ben Roberts-Smith, was taken into custody in connection with alleged incidents that took place between 2009 and 2012, AFP reported.
Police allege the accused was involved in multiple killings of individuals who were not engaged in hostilities at the time. Authorities further stated that some of the alleged victims were shot directly by the accused, while others were killed by subordinate personnel acting on his orders.
Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett said the individual would face five counts of “war crime, murder,” marking one of the most significant prosecutions arising from Australia’s military involvement in Afghanistan.
Roberts-Smith, a former member of the Special Air Service Regiment, was once regarded as one of Australia’s most celebrated war heroes. He was awarded the Victoria Cross, Australia’s highest military honour, for conspicuous bravery during operations in Afghanistan targeting senior Taliban figures.
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However, his reputation began to unravel after investigative reports published in 2018 by major Australian newspapers alleged his involvement in serious misconduct, including the killing of unarmed civilians. Those reports ultimately triggered extensive investigations into alleged war crimes committed by Australian personnel.
Throughout the legal proceedings and public scrutiny, Roberts-Smith has consistently denied all allegations and has pursued legal action against the media outlets that first reported the claims.
Australia’s military involvement in Afghanistan spanned two decades, during which approximately 39,000 troops were deployed as part of US and NATO-led operations. In the years following their return, allegations of misconduct by some personnel have come under increasing legal and public examination.
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A 2020 inquiry into Australian special forces found evidence suggesting that at least 39 Afghan civilians and detainees may have been unlawfully killed. The report also raised concerns about possible summary executions, mistreatment of prisoners, and other serious violations, prompting calls for accountability and criminal investigations.
