British soldiers stationed in Kenya have been implicated in fresh allegations of using sex workers despite a formal ban introduced in 2022, according to an investigative report by BBC Africa
An internal inquiry uncovered 35 suspected cases of soldiers at the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) engaging in prohibited conduct. While most of the incidents occurred prior to the mandatory training on the ban in November 2022, at least nine cases took place afterwards, raising concerns about continued violations.
The British Army has acknowledged the findings, stating that evidence was weak in many of the cases but reaffirming that such behavior is “entirely at odds” with its values.
The revelations add to a history of controversy surrounding BATUK, which maintains a long-standing presence in Laikipia, central Kenya. The unit has previously faced serious scandals, including the 2012 murder of Agnes Wanjiru, a Kenyan woman whose death was linked to British soldiers, as well as persistent claims of sexual abuse, rape, and children allegedly abandoned by servicemen.
Kenyan lawmakers are now launching investigations into the latest allegations. The BBC report urges stronger disciplinary measures, tighter supervision, and increased patrols to prevent further violations.
As of August 2025, the army confirmed that fewer than five new cases remain under review, but the controversy has already reignited debate over accountability and oversight within the British military’s operations in Kenya.
Do you want me to expand this into a long-form backgrounder (detailing BATUK’s history in Kenya and past scandals) or keep it strictly as a news update for timely publication?
