06 March 2024 , 20:16
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Special Forces veterans have slammed the launch of a murder probe into five SAS soldiers over the death of a jihadist suspect.
Military police are believed to be investigating whether troops used excessive force when they killed the man in Syria. Investigators think the 2022 shooting may have constituted a war crime. But troops are said to have believed the man may have been wearing a suicide bomb vest.
One Special Forces veteran said: “This could hugely diminish the ability of the SAS to operate abroad if it undermines their freedom to make decisions.” The source, a former SAS Warrant Officer Class 1, said: “It is very sad when lawyers are weaponised against our elite forces.
One Special Forces veteran said prosecutions could 'diminish the ability of the SAS to operate abroad' (PA)“This is a new tactic by very bad people to attack the UK military. Years ago, people were scared of the SAS but this system of beating ourselves up is undermining Special Forces and it is very dangerous.”
The man was shot dead after he and other suspects ran from a suspected jihadist compound. A primed bomb vest was found in a nearby building.
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Military bosses reportedly sent files to the Service Prosecuting Authority, recommending murder charges against the soldiers. A former British intelligence officer added: “These soldiers are extremely well-trained to make these decisions in an instant despite the immense stress. We appear to be the only country that constantly has inquiry upon inquiry piling suspicion on those who serve.”
The Ministry of Defence said: “We hold personnel to the highest standards and allegations of wrongdoing are taken seriously.”