Image: The Guardian

Ben Roberts-Smith Charged With Five War Crime Murders, Remains in Custody

08 April, 2026.Australia.14 sources

Key Takeaways

Roberts-Smith arrested at Sydney Airport on five counts of war crime murder in Afghanistan (2009-2012).
Remains in custody ahead of court; maximum penalty life imprisonment.
Victoria Cross recipient and Australia's most decorated living soldier faces war-crimes charges.

Arrest and Charges

Roberts-Smith was arrested at Sydney Airport and charged with five counts of war crime murder.

“Former SAS soldier Ben Roberts-Smith will remain in custody for months after being charged over multiple alleged war crimes”

9News

He was taken to Silverwater Correctional Complex without bail after his lawyers declined to apply for release.

9News

The charges stem from alleged killings of unarmed Afghans between 2009 and 2012.

The investigation began in 2021, and this is Australia's most high-profile war crimes prosecution.

Bail Proceedings

Roberts-Smith did not appear at an online bail hearing.

The judge deemed an in-person mention a pipe dream due to scheduling.

@9News

The case was re-listed for June 4, meaning he will remain in custody for at least two months.

Background and Legal Context

The charges arise from a joint investigation launched in 2021.

“In short: Former soldier and Victoria Cross recipient Ben Roberts-Smith was arrested and charged over allegations of war crimes following a five-year investigation”