ABC Apologizes for Editing Errors in Afghan War Reports

Overview

• The ABC's 2022 reports on the 2nd Commando Regiment included inaccurately added gunshot sounds, but an investigation found no deliberate intent to mislead.
• The review, led by former ABC executive Alan Sunderland, concluded the errors were the result of attempts to produce clean and effective sequences.
• ABC News director Justin Stevens issued apologies to audiences, commandos, and former DEA official Bret Hamilton for the editing mistakes.
• The investigation also found that Hamilton's comments regarding war crimes were taken out of context, prompting further apologies from the ABC.
• Recommendations were made to review ABC's editorial policies and training to prevent future errors, with further actions under consideration by ABC leadership.