An investigation into the conduct of troops at the British Army Training Unit Kenya (Batuk) revealed that soldiers engage in sexual activities with local sex workers at a low to moderate level, prompting concerns of exploitation amidst previous allegations and inquiries surrounding army behavior.
Investigation Reveals Continued Use of Sex Workers by British Soldiers in Kenya
Investigation Reveals Continued Use of Sex Workers by British Soldiers in Kenya
A British army inquiry has found ongoing use of sex workers by personnel stationed at a base in Kenya, despite an established ban.
The British Army's commitment to addressing sexual exploitation has come under scrutiny as an inquiry reveals that some soldiers stationed at its Kenyan training base, the British Army Training Unit Kenya (Batuk), are reportedly continuing to hire sex workers, despite an explicit ban prohibiting such actions. The army's investigation, which spanned over two years, revealed that the issue persists at a "low or moderate" level, necessitating further efforts to eradicate this behavior.
Launched in October 2025, the inquiry examined conduct dating back to July 2022, spurred by an ITV report highlighting claims of soldiers engaging with local women for sex. This follow-up investigation is set against a backdrop of increased scrutiny of Batuk, especially following the tragic death of Agnes Wanjiru, a local woman allegedly killed by a British soldier in 2012. Rising concerns regarding the treatment of local citizens have prompted various investigations into the base's operations.
General Sir Roly Walker, the UK's Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized the army’s commitment to eradicating sexual exploitation, asserting that such behaviors are wholly unacceptable and contradictory to the values of the British Army. The report underscores that transactional sex is still occurring at Batuk, with 35 suspected instances since guidance was renewed in July 2022, amidst a contingent of 7,666 personnel.
Of primary concern is the time frame preceding training on the new rules, during which 26 incidents took place, and nine cases were reported post-implementation. However, most allegations remain unproven. The Foreign Office has also indicated that a few additional cases are currently under investigation.
To combat these issues, the army has introduced new strategies, including enhanced training and monitoring initiatives designed to oversee the conduct of personnel when off duty. The report further indicates a determination to implement its recommendations aggressively, including potential disciplinary actions against soldiers involved in such cases.
The ongoing scrutiny has revealed broader concerns, including complaints regarding maltreatment of locals and complex relationships leading to abandonment of children born to Kenyan mothers.
Despite these allegations, the report found that a significant portion of local residents express satisfaction with the Batuk’s presence. The inquiry reflects a continued commitment to uphold ethical standards among military personnel while highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance against abuse and exploitation in foreign deployments.
Launched in October 2025, the inquiry examined conduct dating back to July 2022, spurred by an ITV report highlighting claims of soldiers engaging with local women for sex. This follow-up investigation is set against a backdrop of increased scrutiny of Batuk, especially following the tragic death of Agnes Wanjiru, a local woman allegedly killed by a British soldier in 2012. Rising concerns regarding the treatment of local citizens have prompted various investigations into the base's operations.
General Sir Roly Walker, the UK's Chief of Defence Staff, emphasized the army’s commitment to eradicating sexual exploitation, asserting that such behaviors are wholly unacceptable and contradictory to the values of the British Army. The report underscores that transactional sex is still occurring at Batuk, with 35 suspected instances since guidance was renewed in July 2022, amidst a contingent of 7,666 personnel.
Of primary concern is the time frame preceding training on the new rules, during which 26 incidents took place, and nine cases were reported post-implementation. However, most allegations remain unproven. The Foreign Office has also indicated that a few additional cases are currently under investigation.
To combat these issues, the army has introduced new strategies, including enhanced training and monitoring initiatives designed to oversee the conduct of personnel when off duty. The report further indicates a determination to implement its recommendations aggressively, including potential disciplinary actions against soldiers involved in such cases.
The ongoing scrutiny has revealed broader concerns, including complaints regarding maltreatment of locals and complex relationships leading to abandonment of children born to Kenyan mothers.
Despite these allegations, the report found that a significant portion of local residents express satisfaction with the Batuk’s presence. The inquiry reflects a continued commitment to uphold ethical standards among military personnel while highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance against abuse and exploitation in foreign deployments.
