Australia’s most-decorated soldier arrested over alleged war crimes – local media

Australia’s Top Decorated Soldier Faces War Crimes Charges

A former Australian soldier, recognized as the nation’s most decorated veteran, has been arrested and is set to appear in court on Tuesday. The charges include five counts of war crimes murder, according to local media reports. The 47-year-old, Ben Roberts-Smith, was detained at Sydney Airport and has denied all wrongdoing.

In a 2023 defamation ruling, Roberts-Smith was found to have killed several unarmed Afghans during his service. He has described the allegations as “egregious” and “spiteful,” maintaining his innocence. The case marks a significant moment, as it is the first time a court has evaluated claims of war crimes by Australian forces.

“Roberts-Smith’s case is confined to a small part of our trusted ADF,” said Commissioner Krissy Barrett of the Australian Federal Police. “The majority of the force continues to uphold our country’s values.”

Earlier in 2020, the Brereton Report revealed credible evidence that elite Australian soldiers had killed 39 individuals in Afghanistan. This investigation recommended 19 service members, including Roberts-Smith, be scrutinized for their actions. Despite losing an appeal last year, he remains steadfast in his claim that the alleged killings were either lawful or did not occur at all.

The arrest follows a long-standing legal battle, with the AFP confirming the charges relate to incidents between 2009 and 2012. Roberts-Smith, a Victoria Cross recipient, now faces potential criminal accountability for his alleged conduct during combat operations in the region.