A BBC investigation has revealed that General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, former head of the UK Special Forces (UKSF), was involved in denying resettlement applications from Afghan commandos who had fought alongside British troops. These elite soldiers, known as the “Triples,” were left stranded in Afghanistan despite presenting credible evidence of their service, leaving them vulnerable to Taliban retaliation.
The rejections reportedly occurred while the UK government was investigating alleged war crimes committed by British Special Forces in Afghanistan. Some of the Afghan applicants were expected to serve as key witnesses in the inquiry, raising serious questions about whether the decisions were politically motivated to suppress damaging testimony. Internal Ministry of Defence communications show that civil servants were directed by a UKSF officer, reportedly under Gen Jenkins’ orders, to reject the applications using questionable reasoning.
Tragically, several of those denied resettlement were later captured, tortured, or killed by the Taliban. Critics argue that this represents a moral failure and a betrayal of those who risked their lives for Britain’s missions. The Ministry of Defence has not responded directly to the claims, and Gen Jenkins, now an adviser to the Defence Secretary and a contender for the role of First Sea Lord, has declined to comment.
The revelations have sparked outrage among veterans, MPs, and human rights groups, who are demanding a formal inquiry into the resettlement process and accountability for those responsible. As scrutiny intensifies, the government faces mounting pressure to review its treatment of Afghan allies and ensure that no one is left behind for political convenience.
