The British Army has come under fire after an inquiry revealed that some soldiers at the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) are still using sex workers, despite a strict ban. This investigation spanned over two years, looking into soldier conduct since July 2022, and was prompted by previous media reports, including ITV's alarming documentary detailing allegations of sexual misconduct.
UK's Chief of Defence Staff, General Sir Roly Walker, expressed his deep concerns, emphasizing that transactional sex "should not be happening at all" within the army. The report cited 35 instances of soldiers suspected of paying for sex since new regulations were introduced, with the majority of allegations remaining unproven.
While some measures have been put in place, such as additional training and designated patrols to monitor soldiers off-base, the report indicates that "transactional sexual activity" persists at a "low to moderate" level. The inquiry underscores the need for continuous efforts to prevent such behavior, recommending easier dismissals for soldiers found guilty of exploiting local women.
Further complicating the situation, members of the Kenyan Parliament are investigating additional claims of mistreatment by soldiers, including instances of soldiers abandoning children fathered with local women. While the inquiry highlights significant issues, it also notes that many local residents support the BATUK camp's presence.
As calls for accountability grow louder, the British Army faces mounting pressure to uphold its values and eliminate sexual exploitation among its ranks.
UK's Chief of Defence Staff, General Sir Roly Walker, expressed his deep concerns, emphasizing that transactional sex "should not be happening at all" within the army. The report cited 35 instances of soldiers suspected of paying for sex since new regulations were introduced, with the majority of allegations remaining unproven.
While some measures have been put in place, such as additional training and designated patrols to monitor soldiers off-base, the report indicates that "transactional sexual activity" persists at a "low to moderate" level. The inquiry underscores the need for continuous efforts to prevent such behavior, recommending easier dismissals for soldiers found guilty of exploiting local women.
Further complicating the situation, members of the Kenyan Parliament are investigating additional claims of mistreatment by soldiers, including instances of soldiers abandoning children fathered with local women. While the inquiry highlights significant issues, it also notes that many local residents support the BATUK camp's presence.
As calls for accountability grow louder, the British Army faces mounting pressure to uphold its values and eliminate sexual exploitation among its ranks.
