The inquiry, commissioned in October 2025 and covering a span of over two years, followed gripping allegations of soldiers paying local women for sex — concerns that were highlighted in an ITV documentary. This issue has been further complicated by historical incidents, including the unresolved death of Agnes Wanjiru in 2012, allegedly linked to a British soldier.
UK Chief of Defence Staff Gen Sir Roly Walker emphasized the army's commitment to combatting sexual exploitation within its ranks, asserting, “There is absolutely no place for sexual exploitation and abuse by people in the British Army.” The report documented 35 different instances of suspected transactional sex at Batuk since the introduction of relevant regulations in July 2022. While some accusations lacked sufficient evidence, it was noted that less than five additional incidents are under review by the Foreign Office.
The report acknowledged the continuous occurrence of "transactional sexual activity," despite various measures implemented by the army to mitigate this issue. Efforts such as targeted training and supervisory patrols have been established; however, the situation has not reached a point of crisis.
In light of the findings, the army plans to adopt the report's recommendations, aiming to streamline the dismissal process for soldiers associated with illicit activities. This inquiry adds to ongoing controversies regarding British military operations in Kenya, where a parliamentary inquiry is examining broader allegations of misconduct involving local communities.
In related recent occurrences, a soldier at the Batuk base was repatriated due to a rape allegation. Despite these discouraging situations, feedback from local residents generally indicated a positive perspective regarding the presence of the British military in the region.
UK Chief of Defence Staff Gen Sir Roly Walker emphasized the army's commitment to combatting sexual exploitation within its ranks, asserting, “There is absolutely no place for sexual exploitation and abuse by people in the British Army.” The report documented 35 different instances of suspected transactional sex at Batuk since the introduction of relevant regulations in July 2022. While some accusations lacked sufficient evidence, it was noted that less than five additional incidents are under review by the Foreign Office.
The report acknowledged the continuous occurrence of "transactional sexual activity," despite various measures implemented by the army to mitigate this issue. Efforts such as targeted training and supervisory patrols have been established; however, the situation has not reached a point of crisis.
In light of the findings, the army plans to adopt the report's recommendations, aiming to streamline the dismissal process for soldiers associated with illicit activities. This inquiry adds to ongoing controversies regarding British military operations in Kenya, where a parliamentary inquiry is examining broader allegations of misconduct involving local communities.
In related recent occurrences, a soldier at the Batuk base was repatriated due to a rape allegation. Despite these discouraging situations, feedback from local residents generally indicated a positive perspective regarding the presence of the British military in the region.
