The Afghan government in a statement on Thursday said that sharing the findings by Australian Defense Force’s inspector-general is an essential step to ensure transparency and assure that legal proceedings of the case are carried out.
The report has found evidence that elite Australian troops unlawfully killed 39 Afghan prisoners, farmers and civilians.
Australian Defense Force Chief Gen. Angus Campbell said Thursday the shameful record included alleged instances in which new patrol members would shoot a prisoner in order to achieve their first kill in a practice known as “blooding,” according to TIME report.
He said the soldiers would then plant weapons and radios to support false claims the prisoners were enemies killed in action, the report said.
“We fully trust the legal and judicial systems of Australia and are confident that those Australian troops accused of misconduct in Afghanistan will be prosecuted,” the Afghan government said.
The Presidential Palace in a statement said that Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in a phone call with President Ghani assured him of a comprehensive investigation of the case and to ensuring justice.
The statement said that the Afghan government hopes the commitments by the Australian side are fulfilled.
Based on the international laws and conventions, all parties to armed conflicts must bear the responsibility to protect civilians, the statement said.
The Afghan government retaliated that it remains committed to abiding by national and international laws to protect the lives and property of its citizens, preserve their rights and ensure that justice prevails.
