Allegations of unlawful special forces executions ‘extremely serious’

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Lord Justice Haddon-Cave said anyone found to have broken the law should be “referred to the relevant authorities for investigation” – describing it as “critical – both for the reputation of the armed forces and the country.” Two RMP investigations, codenamed Operation Northmoor and Operation Cestro, are set to be scrutinised by the probe. Lord Justice Haddon-Cave said the probe was equally important to “have the cloud of suspicion lifted” from those who have done nothing wrong, but told reporters some alleged unlawful killings could have involved children. “This is critical, both for the reputation of the armed forces and the country.” Our clients welcome the official launch of the Independent Inquiry relating to Afghanistan and look forward to working with Lord Justice Haddon-Cave and his inquiry team as they seek to establish the truth which has been hidden for too long Tessa Gregory, Leigh Day The families of eight people, including three young boys, who were allegedly murdered by UK special forces in two separate incidents during night raids in Afghanistan in 2011 and 2012 previously welcomed the announcement. When the probe was launched, a member of the Noorzai family said: “We live in hope that those responsible will one day be held to account.” A member of the Saifullah family added: “I am extremely happy that there are people who value the loss of life of my family, of Afghans, enough to investigate.” Speaking after the inquiry was officially launched, Tessa Gregory, partner at Leigh Day, said: “Our clients welcome the official launch of the Independent Inquiry relating to Afghanistan and look forward to working with Lord Justice Haddon-Cave and his inquiry team as they seek to establish the truth which has been hidden for too long.