SYDNEY – A court in Australia has granted bail to former soldier Ben Roberts-Smith. He is facing serious war crimes charges linked to operations in Afghanistan.
The decision was announced by Judge Greg Grogin in a Sydney court. The judge said bail conditions were strong enough to reduce risks of flight or witness interference.
The former soldier is accused of involvement in the killing of unarmed prisoners. These alleged incidents took place during military operations between 2009 and 2012.
Ben Roberts-Smith was once one of Australia’s most decorated soldier figures. He received the Victoria Cross in 2011. The award is given for exceptional bravery in combat.
However, his reputation changed after a major military investigation in 2020. The report raised serious allegations against elite Australian units. It included claims of unlawful killings and abuse during the Afghanistan conflict.
Following these findings, Roberts-Smith was formally charged with five counts of war crime murder. Police say the former soldier may have been involved in multiple unlawful killings.
Authorities described the case as part of a wider investigation into alleged misconduct by special forces. The inquiry focused on actions during deployments against Taliban fighters.
During the hearing, Judge Grogin noted that denying bail could keep the former soldier in custody for many years before trial. He said the proposed conditions were sufficient for now.
Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett confirmed the charges and ongoing legal process. She stated that the allegations are serious and remain under investigation.
If convicted, the former soldier could face life imprisonment. The case is expected to continue for an extended period due to its complexity.
The allegations have sparked widespread attention in Australia. The case has also renewed debate about accountability within military operations.
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For now, the former soldier remains on bail while awaiting further court proceedings.
