Criminal Investigation of US Soldiers

At least 10 U.S. Army soldiers from a troubled unit of the 2nd Infantry Division in southern Afghanistan are now the focus of a criminal investigation into allegations they deliberately killed Afghan civilians, used illegal drugs and conducted other illicit activities,according to several sources in Afghanistan. The soldiers are part of the 5th Stryker Brigade of the 2ID, based out of Fort Lewis, Washington. The military issued a brief statement last week saying a criminal probe was under way into the allegations of killing, illegal drug use, assault and conspiracy. One military official familiar with the details of the case told reporters the matter was brought to the attention of commanders by at least one other soldier. The killings of the civilians did not take place in one single incident, the official said. Those under investigation are members of the same company, the official said. All 10 remain in Afghanistan. One soldier is being held in detention known as "pre-trial confinement." The others have been "put in a position where they can do no harm," the official said. He would offer no other details. Charges are expected to be filed in the coming days. The U.S. military is bracing for a further public outcry in Afghanistan when details emerge, several officials said. Gen. Stanley McChrystal has claimed to make the 'protection of Afghan civilians a top priority'. The officials stressed this case appears to be one of deliberate murder, not civilian casualties as a result of combat.