Ex-Defence Secretary Advised Against SAS Executions Inquiry
Former defence secretary Ben Wallace was advised against launching a public inquiry into allegations of SAS executions in Afghanistan due to concerns about cost and reputational damage to the military. Despite this, Wallace initiated the inquiry following media reports and new evidence. The investigation aims to address claims of up to 80 Afghan civilian deaths between 2010 and 2013.
Former defence secretary Ben Wallace was advised by Sir Stephen Lovegrove, the permanent secretary at the Ministry of Defence (MoD), against launching a public inquiry into allegations of unlawful SAS executions in Afghanistan.
The advice, documented in August 2020, highlighted concerns that such a move would be costly, unproductive, and damaging to the military's reputation.
Despite this, Wallace ultimately initiated the inquiry in response to allegations reported by BBC’s Panorama and the Sunday Times, claiming that up to 80 Afghan civilians were killed by SAS soldiers between 2010 and 2013.
The existing investigations, like Operation Northmoor, had previously been shut down without charges, but new evidence and civil claims prompted further scrutiny.
Wallace's inquiry aims to uncover the truth behind these serious allegations.
The advice, documented in August 2020, highlighted concerns that such a move would be costly, unproductive, and damaging to the military's reputation.
Despite this, Wallace ultimately initiated the inquiry in response to allegations reported by BBC’s Panorama and the Sunday Times, claiming that up to 80 Afghan civilians were killed by SAS soldiers between 2010 and 2013.
The existing investigations, like Operation Northmoor, had previously been shut down without charges, but new evidence and civil claims prompted further scrutiny.
Wallace's inquiry aims to uncover the truth behind these serious allegations.
