Summary
Australian soldiers have told prosecutors that Ben Roberts-Smith ordered or was involved in killing unarmed civilians during his military service in Afghanistan. Roberts-Smith, a decorated soldier, faces five murder charges related to alleged war crimes, each carrying a potential life sentence. Witnesses have admitted to executing detainees under his orders, and the case is currently before the New South Wales local court.
Key Facts
- Ben Roberts-Smith is charged with five counts of murder as war crimes.
- The charges relate to incidents during his time in the Australian Special Air Service (SAS) in Afghanistan.
- Three soldiers have admitted to executing detainees under Roberts-Smith’s order or with his knowledge.
- The victims were unarmed civilians, detained and questioned before being killed.
- The killings allegedly happened while the Australian Defence Force controlled the area, with no active fighting ongoing.
- Evidence was reportedly planted to make the killings appear lawful.
- Two specific murders took place in April 2009 in the village of Kakarak involving a father and son.
- Roberts-Smith was arrested, granted bail under strict rules, and has denied wrongdoing.
