Afghan soldier who allegedly killed Australian soldiers arrested

KABUL, Afghanistan, Oct. 2 (UPI) -- A member of the Afghan army allegedly responsible for killing three Australian soldiers last year was arrested, an Australian official said Wednesday.

The soldier, identified only as Sgt. Hematullah, was arrested in February after a joint operation between Australian spies and special forces troops, and Pakistan and Afghanistan security agencies, Khaama Press reported Wednesday.

Hematullah allegedly opened fire on NATO soldiers in August 2012, killing three soldiers and injuring two others.

"We expect him to stand trial for murder," said Australia's chief of defense forces, Gen. David Hurley.

If convicted, Hematullah could be sentenced to death.

Other agencies involved in Hematullah's apprehension included the U.S. National Security Agency, the Central Intelligence Agency, U.S. special forces units, and Britain's MI6 and Special Air Service.