Afghan Inquiry into Alleged SAS War Crimes: Cost and Delays
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By Jonathan Beale, BBC Defence Correspondent
An inquiry into allegations British Special Forces murdered unarmed Afghan civilians has cost UK taxpayers £58 million, according to figures from the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
When launched in 2023, the Independent Inquiry relating to Afghanistan (IIRTA) aimed to report within 12-18 months. However, after more than three and a half years, it has yet to publish any findings.
Inquiry Expenses and Delays:
The IIRTA's statement attributed delays to "the complexity of the work" and MoD withholding information. The inquiry was established to investigate alleged war crimes by soldiers serving with the Special Air Service (SAS) between 2010 and 2013 during night raids targeting the Taliban. These include accusations of murdering detainees and unarmed civilians, including children.
Key Points:
- The SAS carried out night raids with Afghan special forces to target the Taliban.
- Allegations include extrajudicial killings of Afghans by the SAS.
- Much of the inquiry has been in closed sessions to protect serving personnel' identities.
- Some evidence has been published, highlighting concerns about SAS secrecy and previous inquiries' premature conclusions.
- The inquiry's costs until March 2026: £58 million (including MoD and IIRTA expenses).
- 74 MoD staff dedicated more than 50% of their time to the inquiry.