Five Royal Marines who were part of a three brigade commando mission in Afghanistan are facing murder charges, over the alleged killing of an Afghan insurgent in the Helmand province last year. Nine soldiers were originally arrested over the murder and four of those have since been released without charge, pending further inquiries.

The Ministry of Defence said the accused marines are to remain in custody until court proceedings take place. They added "The Royal Military police have referred the cases of the remaining five Royal Marines to the independent Service Prosecuting Authority. Following direction from the SPA these marines have now been charged with murder and they remain in custody pending court proceedings,"

This is probably the first time British forces have been detained on such serious charges and could provide an opportunity for Afghan militants to show NATO forces in a bad light.NATO refused further comment on the issue as the investigation is now on going.

I am Ann Salter thanks for watching. Stay tuned for the latest news and updates with me at ibtimes.co.uk

Written and presented by Ann Salter