A recent inquiry has shed light on the compromising conduct of British soldiers stationed at the British Army Training Unit Kenya (Batuk), revealing ongoing use of sex workers despite categorical bans. This investigation, spanning over two years and only undertaken after previous media scrutiny, indicates that behavior perceived as sexual exploitation persists among troops despite assurances from army leaders.
British Soldiers Continue to Engage with Sex Workers in Kenya Amid Inquiry Findings
British Soldiers Continue to Engage with Sex Workers in Kenya Amid Inquiry Findings
An investigation reveals that UK troops stationed in Kenya are still engaging sex workers despite an ongoing ban, contradicting army regulations.
The report noted that some soldiers had engaged sex workers at "low or moderate" levels, asserting that ongoing efforts must be made to eliminate this practice entirely. The probe was prompted by a 2021 ITV investigation into the conduct of soldiers at Batuk, which raised serious concerns surrounding the troops’ interactions with local women.
The inquiry, initiated by UK Chief of Defence Staff General Sir Roly Walker, examined conduct dating back to July 2022 and pointed out that 26 alleged instances of transactional sex occurred prior to the initiation of training regarding these regulations. Overall, 35 suspected cases were under scrutiny, with fewer than five cases continuing to be investigated by the Foreign Office, involving incidents that transpired after the inquiry had concluded.
Despite the implementation of measures like continuous training and monitoring of soldiers during off-base activities, the report concluded that incidents of “transactional sexual activity” were still occurring. General Walker emphasized the army’s commitment to eradicating sexual exploitation, labeling such actions as "unacceptable" and against the fundamental principles of army service.
The inquiry also highlighted broader issues regarding soldiers’ conduct and its impact on the local population, with MPs in Kenya probing various allegations, including the mistreatment of residents and instances of British troops fathering children with local women before abandoning them after returning home.
Despite these revelations, the Service Inquiry shared that "the vast majority" of Kenyans view the presence of the Batuk camp positively. However, lingering concerns over British Army conduct continue to spotlight the need for systemic changes and improved oversight to protect vulnerable communities associated with military bases.
The inquiry, initiated by UK Chief of Defence Staff General Sir Roly Walker, examined conduct dating back to July 2022 and pointed out that 26 alleged instances of transactional sex occurred prior to the initiation of training regarding these regulations. Overall, 35 suspected cases were under scrutiny, with fewer than five cases continuing to be investigated by the Foreign Office, involving incidents that transpired after the inquiry had concluded.
Despite the implementation of measures like continuous training and monitoring of soldiers during off-base activities, the report concluded that incidents of “transactional sexual activity” were still occurring. General Walker emphasized the army’s commitment to eradicating sexual exploitation, labeling such actions as "unacceptable" and against the fundamental principles of army service.
The inquiry also highlighted broader issues regarding soldiers’ conduct and its impact on the local population, with MPs in Kenya probing various allegations, including the mistreatment of residents and instances of British troops fathering children with local women before abandoning them after returning home.
Despite these revelations, the Service Inquiry shared that "the vast majority" of Kenyans view the presence of the Batuk camp positively. However, lingering concerns over British Army conduct continue to spotlight the need for systemic changes and improved oversight to protect vulnerable communities associated with military bases.
