Ben Roberts-Smith appears via video link in Sydney court on war crimes charges. Prosecutors accuse Australia’s most decorated living soldier of five murders during Afghanistan deployments.
Fresh documents detail allegations. SAS corporal Roberts-Smith allegedly executed a disabled detainee, kicked a handcuffed prisoner off a cliff, and ordered rookie “blooding” killings. He planted throw-down items to conceal crimes.
At Whiskey 108 compound on April 12, 2009, troops cleared Taliban tunnels post-airstrike. SAS pulled handcuffed father Mohammad Essa and prosthetic-legged son Ahmadullah from hiding.
Roberts-Smith allegedly dragged Ahmadullah outside, threw him down, and machine-gunned him dead. Witnesses from protective cordon observed the act.
The 47-year-old denies all charges. His lawyer calls it uncharted territory—no prior Australian war crimes trial for its troops. SAS veteran earned Medal of Gallantry after East Timor service.
