Former Afghan commander charged over alleged affair

Toronto, July 13 (ANI): Canada's former top soldier in Afghanistan has been charged with criminal and military offences in relation to allegations that he had an affair with a subordinate.

According to the Globe and Mail, Brigadier-General Daniel Ménard faces one criminal charge of obstructing justice and an alternative military charge. He also faces two military charges of "conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline" in relation to fraternization directives.

In addition, Master-Corporal Bianka Langlois has been charged with conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline, also in relation to the military's rules on personal relationships.

In a news release, the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service, which is the investigative arm of the military police, said it had "concluded its investigation relating to allegations of inappropriate conduct."

Brig.-Gen. Ménard, who was promoted to brigadier-general on Jan. 1, joined the Canadian forces in 1984 and was posted to the Royal 22nd Regiment where initially served as a platoon commander. He rose quickly through the ranks, serving in Great Britain, Berlin, Germany and Bosnia. He assumed command of Task Force Kandahar last November. (ANI)