British soldiers stationed at a military base in Kenya continue to engage in transactional sex with sex workers despite a strict ban on such conduct, according to an internal military report released this week. The findings reveal at least 35 allegations of sexual exploitation tied to the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) since July 2022, when the UK Ministry of Defence prohibited “all sexual activity involving abuse of power,” including purchasing sex abroad.
Nine of these reported incidents occurred after November 2022, when the policy was fully implemented across the battalion. Disciplinary actions for confirmed violations have included demotions, fines up to £2,000, and administrative penalties, though some cases were dismissed due to lack of evidence. General Sir Roly Walker, Chief of the General Staff, acknowledged the persistence of “low to moderate” levels of prohibited behavior, stressing that such practices “should not be happening at all.”
The report, commissioned by Walker himself, emerged amid scrutiny following a 2023 ITV documentary titled The Base: A British Army Scandal, which alleged systemic exploitation by personnel at the Nanyuki-located facility. The documentary included claims that troops had paid for sex with local women and sexually assaulted minors as young as 13. While the military inquiry did not specify whether underage victims were involved in the 35 cases, it confirmed ongoing investigations into the broader allegations.
Over 7,500 personnel were stationed at BATUK during the period under review. The base, operational for decades, serves as a training hub for UK troops. Critics argue the remote location and transient nature of deployments may contribute to accountability challenges. Walker pledged to enforce the report’s recommendations, including streamlining processes to discharge personnel found guilty of soliciting sex workers.
The findings underscore persistent gaps between policy and practice in curbing abuse of power within overseas military operations. They also highlight tensions surrounding the UK’s military presence in Kenya, where partnerships with local communities have occasionally been strained by reports of misconduct. Authorities have not disclosed whether victims in the reported cases received compensation or support, nor have they elaborated on measures to prevent future violations beyond disciplinary reforms.
The Ministry of Defence reiterated its commitment to “the highest standards of behavior,” adding that all allegations are “thoroughly investigated.” Meanwhile, advocacy groups emphasize the need for stronger safeguards to protect vulnerable populations near foreign military installations.
