[5] Neal faced extensive criticism during a public inquiry into Operation Northmoor, a Royal Military Police (RMP) investigation into allegations of war crimes committed by the SAS in Afghanistan.

The investigation, which examined claims that SAS operatives were involved in the extrajudicial killing of unarmed civilians during night raids, was prematurely closed in 2019 without any charges being brought.

Neal was criticised for failing to maintain a policy file or logbook documenting critical decisions, inadequately resourcing the investigation, and issuing an unexplained order preventing the use of a £7.58 million data handling system purchased to support the inquiry.

These actions, coupled with reports of obstruction by UK Special Forces, were cited as significant factors undermining the investigation’s ability to pursue key lines of inquiry and secure vital evidence.

The ICIBI is an independent monitoring body that reports on the efficiency and effectiveness of the immigration, asylum, nationality and customs functions carried out by the Home Secretary, officials and others on her behalf.

[19] Neal was dismissed[20] from his position on 20 February 2024 after a dispute with the Home Office over the release of information relating to the alleged lack of security over flights landing at London City Airport.