Ben Roberts‑Smith has spoken publicly for the first time since being released from Sydney’s Silverwater Correctional Complex, where he spent 10 days in custody on multiple war‑crime charges. His release on Friday evening unfolded in chaotic scenes as Corrective Services officers attempted to escort him through a back exit to avoid a large media pack gathered outside.
Speaking from the Gold Coast on Sunday, the decorated former soldier said he “categorically denied” all allegations against him. “For the past 10 years my family and I have been subject to a campaign to convince Australians that I’ve acted improperly in my service in Afghanistan,” he said.
Roberts‑Smith pleaded for privacy, particularly for his children, saying they had “already unfortunately suffered” as a result of what he described as last week’s “deliberate, sensational arrest.” He called the operation “an unnecessary spectacle.”
Court documents released after Friday’s hearing outline the seriousness of the charges. Prosecutors allege that five Afghan civilians and prisoners were killed by Roberts‑Smith or on his orders, despite being unarmed and handcuffed. The documents further claim that evidence was staged to make the deaths appear lawful.
Four Australian soldiers have reportedly admitted to killing Afghan nationals on Roberts‑Smith’s orders and have provided detailed testimony to investigators. They have been granted immunity from prosecution in exchange for their cooperation. Newly revealed details include allegations that one victim was punched, pushed to the ground while handcuffed, and then shot on Roberts‑Smith’s command.
Despite the mounting evidence outlined by prosecutors, Roberts‑Smith insisted on Sunday that he remains proud of his service in Afghanistan.
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