By Blessing Nweke

Australia’s most decorated living soldier, Ben Roberts-Smith, has been arrested and is set to face court over allegations of war crimes committed during his deployment in Afghanistan, according to local media reports.

The former Special Air Service corporal, 47, was detained at Sydney Airport and is expected to be charged with five counts of war crimes murder. Authorities allege that the incidents occurred between 2009 and 2012 while he was serving overseas.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Australian Federal Police confirmed the arrest of a former soldier, saying he would be charged over the alleged shooting deaths of unarmed detainees. Commissioner Krissy Barrett emphasized that the accusations involve only a “very small section” of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), adding that the majority of personnel serve with distinction.

Roberts-Smith, a recipient of the Victoria Cross, has consistently denied all allegations, describing them as “egregious” and “spiteful.” However, a 2023 defamation ruling found that he had unlawfully killed several unarmed Afghan civilians. His appeal against that judgment was dismissed last year.

The case follows the landmark Brereton Report, which uncovered credible evidence that elite Australian troops were responsible for the unlawful killing of 39 individuals in Afghanistan. The report recommended further investigation into 19 current and former soldiers.

Roberts-Smith’s civil proceedings marked the first time an Australian court assessed allegations of war crimes involving its military. His upcoming criminal case is expected to be closely watched both domestically and internationally.