NZ volunteers seek full probe into Afghan civilian deaths

KABUL, a media report said on Tuesday.

More than 3,500 people signed an ActionStation petition calling on the government to carry out an independent probe into a raid by the New Zealand Special Air Service personnel.

In a book they jointly authored, investigative journalists Nicky Hager and Jon Stephenson gave concrete evidence of the SAS involvement in the 2010 airstrike that killed six civilians.

Members of the ActionStation community and the Hit & Run Inquiry Campaign hailed the announcement that Attorney General David Parker would investigate the claims, according to Scoop Media.

Marianne Elliott said: “There needs to be a full and independent Royal commission of inquiry for transparency and authority. This is an opportunity for New Zealand to have trust that we are acting in good faith in our international operations...”

A Hit & Run Inquiry Campaign spokesperson said: “We were heartened by the news that the prime minister has asked the AG to investigate the claims made in the book Hit & Run.

“We believe only a full and independent Royal Commission of Inquiry can result in the truth to be found and justice to be done. We will continue for our voice to be heard,” Aida Tavassoli added.

PAN Monitor/mud