UK military sexual abuse probe expands as more than 500 contact Police

More than 500 people have contacted police investigating alleged sexual abuse during military medical examinations across the UK, prompting authorities to expand the probe to cover the army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force, according to Wiltshire police.

The sexual abuse probe began following reports of abuse during army enlistment medical examinations and has since expanded to include the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force. 

More than 500 reports have been made by serving and former personnel, as well as people who did not go on to join the armed forces after their examinations.

Wiltshire police, which is leading the investigation, said: “Reports received to date relate to incidents between the 1970s up to 2016, at different locations across the UK. Our inquiry will assess any relevant report, whenever it may have occurred.”

READ ALSO: UK govt piles ceasefire pressure on Putin with additional £450m military support to Ukraine

The senior investigating officer, Det Supt Darren Hannant, said: “The number of people who have contacted us highlights the seriousness of the abuse being reported, my team and I are committed to engaging with each survivor and witness.

“We would like to speak to anyone who may have information which can inform our investigation. We recognise how difficult it can be to come forward with experiences like these, particularly when they occurred many years ago.

“The scope of our inquiry has widened to include anyone who has information concerning the behaviour at military medical examinations including civilians, or those serving in any branch of the armed forces.

“You do not need to be sure whether your experience falls within the scope of this investigation. Our team will assess any report and ensure it is handled appropriately. Any reports will be treated with the utmost sensitivity; our officers will listen and support you.

“Our team will review every report carefully and in detail. Due to the volume of information received, it may take a few weeks to make direct contact, but please be assured that every report is being taken seriously.

“The information you provide helps us understand what has happened and identify any steps we need to take to safeguard others.”

Louise Sandher-Jones, the minister for veterans and people, said: “The scale of this response is deeply disturbing, but it highlights the courage of those coming forward to share these distressing experiences, and I want to assure every single person that their voice matters.

“I’m committed to rooting out sexual misconduct wherever we find it and fully support Wiltshire police as it pursues this investigation with the thoroughness it demands.

“Those who serve, or seek to serve, our country deserve to be treated with dignity and respect at every stage. I urge anyone with information to come forward you will be listened to and supported.”

The investigation, codenamed Operation Pianora, is supported by the defence serious crime command and the Ministry of Defence. Police believe multiple alleged perpetrators may be involved, though no details of potential suspects have been released.

(The Guardian UK)