Ben Roberts-Smith, a Victoria Cross recipient, faces arrest on allegations of war crimes stemming from his service in Afghanistan. Authorities have taken him into custody, though specific details of the charges remain undisclosed.
Background of the Allegations
The decorated soldier previously pursued a defamation lawsuit against media outlets and journalists Nick McKenzie and Chris Masters. Their 2018 reports accused him of committing war crimes, including the unlawful killings of unarmed civilians.
Court Findings in Defamation Case
In 2023, Justice Anthony Besanko ruled that claims Roberts-Smith was responsible for the murders of four unarmed male civilians during deployment in Afghanistan were substantially true.
Failed Appeal
Roberts-Smith appealed the decision. The Federal Court heard arguments over 10 days in February 2024. After more than a year, the Full Court dismissed the appeal in May 2025, upholding the original findings.
Further developments are anticipated as investigations continue.
