UK military sexual abuse investigation widened as more than 500 contact police | Military
More than 500 people have contacted police to investigate alleged sexual abuse that occurred during armed forces medical examinations over nearly 50 years.
The investigation was launched following reports that some soldiers were mistreated during recruitment medical examinations, but its scope was broadened to include the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force.
Veterans and Community Affairs Minister Louise Sandher-Jones described the scale as “deeply disturbing” and praised the bravery of those who came forward.
Wiltshire police, who are investigating, said more women than men had come forward to police so far, with most of them aged 18-25 at the time of the alleged crimes, although some were as young as 16.
Both current and former military personnel, as well as individuals who had not joined the armed forces following medical examinations, also contacted the police.
The reports relate to alleged incidents in different parts of the UK from the 1970s to 2016. There are concentrations in places where there is more than one military base, such as Wiltshire and North Yorkshire.
Senior investigating officer Det Supt Darren Hannant said: “The number of people contacting us highlights the seriousness of the abuse reported. My team and I are determined to contact every survivor and witness.”
He said the number of reports may increase in the short term as the investigation becomes public.
Hannant said forces from across the UK were assisting Wiltshire police. He said it was believed there were multiple alleged perpetrators but did not believe the crime was organized at this stage.
He said: “My hypothesis is that this is a scenario where an opportunity exists for people who are prepared to act inappropriately. I do not get the impression that the attack was of an organized nature.” We would like to speak to anyone who may have information that could shed light on our investigation. We realize how difficult it can be to stand out with experiences like these, especially when they happened years ago.
“The scope of our investigation has been extended to anyone with information about conduct at military medical examinations, including civilians or those serving in any branch of the armed forces. There is no need to be unsure whether your experience falls within the scope of this investigation. Our team will assess any reports and ensure they are dealt with appropriately.
“The information you provide helps us understand what happened and determine the steps we need to take to protect others.”
Sandher-Jones said: “The scale of this response is deeply disturbing, but it highlights the bravery of those who have come forward to share these harrowing experiences and I would like to reassure each person that their voices matter. “I am determined to stamp out sexual harassment wherever we find it and offer my full support to Wiltshire police in pursuing this investigation with the rigor it demands.
“Those who serve or seek to serve our country deserve to be treated with dignity and respect at every stage. I encourage anyone with information to come forward and you will be heard and supported.”
Ahmed Al-Nahhas, partner and head of military claims at law firm Bolt Burdon Kemp, said: “It is no surprise to me that the ongoing police investigation has expanded to cover all three services; these problems are rarely confined to a few bad apples. Rather, these problems are widespread and have been for many years. It is reassuring that victims now feel more able to come forward and discuss their difficulties. This could be a turning point in how the armed forces deal with sexual offenses on their own.” next.”
The investigation, codenamed Operation Pianora, can be contacted Here.
