UK special forces could face prosecution as Afghanistan evidence referred to police
Evidence suggesting serious offenses by UK Special Forces in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2013 has been referred to the military police. The referral follows an ongoing public inquiry into allegations of unlawful killings and cover-ups.
Why it matters
This development represents a significant escalation in the accountability process for British military personnel regarding historical operations in Afghanistan.
Image caption, The evidence indicates that serious offences may have been committed by British personnel
UK special forces (UKSF) personnel could face prosecution after evidence found following enquiries by the SAS Inquiry, suggesting serious offences may have been committed in Afghanistan, was handed to the military police.
The evidence came to light in court proceedings on Monday and is the first time the inquiry has publicly acknowledged that its findings could lead to criminal prosecutions.
The referral - made by UKSF earlier this year - was required under the Armed Forces Act, which defines Schedule 2 serious offences as including murder and manslaughter.
It relates to a number of detention operations carried out by British personnel between 2010 and 2013.
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