A special investigator will be set up to investigate allegations of war crimes by some of Australia’s top soldiers.
The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age (both of its owners, and the site, made up of nine) reported today that 10 Special Air Service soldiers were being held, and that at least 12 Afghan civilians were being investigated.
Any cases will be heard in a public court.
Defense Minister Darren Chester acknowledged that this could be a difficult time.
“These allegations do not sit freely on the shoulders of the men and women who work for our nation in this way,” he said.
The investigative report remains with Defense Forces Commander General Angus Campbell, who will present it next week.
Mr Chester said the “small number” of SAS employees under investigation had the right to be considered innocent, but also to be subject to appropriate legal procedures.