An inquiry into allegations that SAS personnel murdered unarmed Afghan civilians during operations between 2010 and 2013 has cost an estimated £58 million and is still awaiting findings after more than three and a half years. The investigation was established following claims reported by BBC Panorama and is examining possible war crimes, including the alleged killing of detainees, civilians and children during night raids.

The inquiry originally intended to publish findings, at least provisionally, within 12 to 18 months, but says the case has proved more complex than expected and that delays in Ministry of Defence disclosures have contributed to the timetable. The MoD says 74 staff are spending more than half their working time on the inquiry, while the SAS Regimental Association warns that its prolonged nature is damaging morale, the regiment’s reputation and potentially national defence; many witnesses have testified privately because of security and legal concerns.