Government strips medals from defence personnel over Afghanistan war crimes findings

Defence Minister Richard Marles has stripped medals up to nine serving and ex-serving military commanders after an inquiry found special forces personnel likely committed war crimes in Afghanistan. Announcing the move in Parliament on Thursday morning, Mr Marles did not reveal the identities of the commanders. “In accordance with obligations owed to individuals involved, including under the Privacy Act, I am prohibited from disclosing the details and outcomes,” the Defence Minister told the House of Representatives. The Brereton Report, commissioned by the government, uncovered credible information that 39 Afghan civilians and prisoners were illegally killed by Special Air Service (SAS) soldiers. Mr Marles said the move concluded the government’s response to the report. “This is the final step in government action emanating from the Brereton Report,” Mr Marles said. “Accordingly, of the 143 recommendations in the Brereton Report, 139 of these recommendations are now closed.” More to come.