Understand
UK special forces face potential prosecution as Afghanistan evidence referred to military police
Overview
Evidence found during enquiries by the SAS Inquiry suggests that serious offences, including murder and manslaughter, may have been committed by UK special forces personnel during detention operations in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2013. The evidence has been referred to the military police's Defence Serious Crime Unit, although criminal investigations have been paused until the public inquiry concludes.
Key points
- UK special forces personnel could face prosecution following the referral of evidence to the military police's Defence Serious Crime Unit.
- The evidence relates to detention operations carried out by British personnel in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2013.
- The referral is required under the Armed Forces Act for Schedule 2 serious offences, which include murder and manslaughter.
- The Ministry of Defence stated it was deemed inappropriate for criminal investigations to take place while the independent public inquiry is ongoing.
- The Independent Inquiry relating to Afghanistan is investigating allegations that the SAS unlawfully killed individuals and that senior officials attempted to cover up the circumstances.