Afghanistan Times
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Kabul: A senior figure within the British special forces reportedly alerted authorities to alleged war crimes committed by the SAS in Afghanistan. Referred to only as N1466, the officer, who oversaw SAS operations abroad from 2009 to 2013, purportedly disclosed concerns about prisoner executions within the SAS ranks, despite potential risks to his family’s safety.
The disclosure triggered a significant investigation, with the Ministry of Defence releasing thousands of classified documents. The inquiry uncovered suspicions of a cover-up, including claims of evidence tampering and the deletion of sensitive files.
Political figures, including then-Prime Minister David Cameron and Conservative MP Johnny Mercer, were reportedly aware of the allegations. Mercer expressed belief in the wrongdoing of the SAS during the conflict.
Following pressure from media reports, a fresh inquiry, known as the Independent Inquiry relating to Afghanistan, was initiated. Documents from this inquiry shed light on N1466’s decision to come forward with the accusations.
Emails and documents revealed discussions among military personnel regarding questionable tactics employed during SAS raids, including the planting of weapons on civilian casualties. The ongoing Afghanistan Inquiry, chaired by Sir Charles Haddon-Cave, aims to investigate these allegations of unlawful killings by British forces during 2010-2013.
The Ministry of Defence reiterated its commitment to supporting the inquiry’s investigation into alleged unlawful activities, while refraining from commenting on specific allegations within its scope.
