British Soldier Arrested in Kenya Over Rape Allegations
A British soldier has been arrested in Kenya on rape allegations stemming from an incident last month at a bar in Nanyuki. This arrest reignites scrutiny over the British Army’s conduct in the region, especially following the unresolved murder of Agnes Wanjiru in 2012, also involving a soldier. The Ministry of Defence stated that such serious allegations are independently investigated, reaffirming their commitment to justice.
A British soldier stationed at a military barracks in Kenya has been apprehended following serious allegations of rape. The incident reportedly occurred last month after a group of soldiers socialized at a bar in Nanyuki, a town close to the British Army Training Unit Kenya, commonly known as Batuk.
The barracks are not without their controversies; they were previously tied to the 2012 murder of local woman Agnes Wanjiru, which investigators claim was also perpetrated by a soldier stationed in Kenya. Currently, the British Army operates under an agreement with Kenya that permits around 6,000 soldiers to engage in exercises annually within the Kenyan countryside.
Confirming the arrest, the Ministry of Defence stated it relates to an ongoing criminal inquiry focusing on events at the Nanyuki base. A spokesperson emphasized that “unacceptable and criminal behaviour” will not be tolerated in the Armed Forces and vowed that allegations against serving personnel are investigated outside their direct command structure.
In addition to the soldier’s arrest, military police have also questioned the bar’s owner and security personnel who were working on the night of the alleged incident. The bar owner recounted that soldiers are frequent patrons and mentioned instances where they have been brought home after becoming excessively intoxicated.
This inquiry into British soldiers’ conduct in the Nanyuki area began last year amid rising reports of serious crimes attributed to British troops. Claims have included rapes and the noted murder of Agnes Wanjiru, who was only 21 at the time of her death. A Sunday Times investigation previously revealed that her suspected killer, a British soldier with the Duke of Lancaster regiment, was known to other soldiers shortly after the crime occurred.
Reports suggest military officers discouraged service members from discussing the murder, threatening that they would be kept in Kenya if they spoke out. Upon discovery of Wanjiru’s remains, correspondence indicates the British military failed to report that soldiers had already identified the alleged murderer soon after the occurrence.
Esther Njoki, niece of Agnes Wanjiru, has voiced concern regarding the recurring incidents and the overall culture of the British Army while stationed in Kenya, labeling the recent allegations as “troubling.” She expressed hope for justice in this new case of misconduct.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey has committed to ensuring justice for Wanjiru’s death, having met her family earlier in the year. He expressed, “It was deeply humbling to meet the family of Agnes Wanjiru… I reiterated my determination to see a resolution to the still unresolved case.”
Notably, Wanjiru’s alleged killer remains unidentified and resides in southern England. Furthermore, a Kenyan prosecutor has indicated that the investigation into her murder is now complete, with authorities currently reviewing the evidence gathered during the inquiry.
In summary, the arrest of a British soldier in Kenya over rape allegations raises serious concerns about the conduct of British forces in the country. Echoing past controversies, particularly the unresolved case surrounding the murder of Agnes Wanjiru, the ongoing investigations prompt urgent discussions about the military’s corporate culture while deployed. Authorities promise thorough investigations as families seek justice for victims.
Original Source: www.lbc.co.uk
