Former Australian Special Forces Officer Denies War Crimes Charges in Afghanistan

A former Australian special forces officer and medal winner has denied allegations that he committed war crimes during his service in Afghanistan.

Ben Robert Smith was arrested on April 17 at Sydney airport. He faces five counts of war crimes, specifically the murders of civilians. The alleged offenses took place between 2009 and 2012. Each charge could result in a life sentence if Smith is convicted. He was released on bail following the arrest.

In denying the charges, Smith stated that he had acted within the rules of engagement as well as in accordance with his training and the values he maintained while serving in Afghanistan.

The veteran also suggested that the charges are part of a broader effort against him. Smith claimed that he and his family have been targeted by a 10-year campaign to portray him as having behaved inappropriately in Afghanistan.

Support for the allegations emerged last week when one of Smith's comrades confirmed that he had committed war crimes by targeting civilians in the country.

The case has attracted the attention of Afghan lawyer Rohullah Sakizada. He stated that organizations defending people and the Afghan government have a duty to pursue the case in court due to crimes against Afghan civilians.