Military officials failed to refer allegations of war crimes by SAS troops to police due to concerns about the impact on unit morale, an official inquiry has heard.

The decision meant that military police remained unaware for years of claims involving extra-judicial killings by members of the elite special forces unit.

The testimony emerged during proceedings examining the handling of serious allegations against SAS personnel. The inquiry is investigating how military authorities responded to reports of potential criminal conduct during overseas operations.

According to evidence presented to the inquiry, senior officials chose not to escalate the allegations through proper channels, citing worries about the effect such investigations might have on the morale and operational effectiveness of the SAS.

The delay in reporting the allegations to appropriate investigative authorities has raised questions about military oversight procedures and accountability mechanisms within special forces operations. The inquiry continues to examine the circumstances surrounding these decisions and their implications for military justice processes.