A major police investigation into alleged sexual abuse during UK armed forces medical examinations has been significantly widened, with authorities confirming they have now received reports from more than 500 individuals. The inquiry, originally focused on the British Army, has been expanded to encompass the Royal Navy and Royal Air Force following a substantial influx of testimonies.
Investigation Scope Broadens Across Military Branches
Wiltshire Police, which is leading the operation codenamed Operation Pianora, launched the investigation after initial reports emerged concerning abuse of recruits during army enlistment medical examinations. The force has now confirmed the scope has been formally extended to include all branches of the UK armed forces, reflecting the scale and seriousness of the allegations being reported.
Detective Superintendent Darren Hannant, the senior investigating officer, stated: "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."
Reports Spanning Nearly Five Decades
Police have revealed that reports received to date relate to incidents occurring between the 1970s and 2016, at various locations across the United Kingdom. The investigation is examining allegations from both serving and former military personnel, as well as individuals who did not ultimately join the armed forces following their medical examinations.
Louise Sandher-Jones, the minister for veterans and people, described the scale of response as "deeply disturbing" while praising the courage of those coming forward. She emphasised: "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."
Police Appeal for Further Information
Authorities have made a direct appeal for anyone with relevant information to come forward, regardless of how long ago incidents may have occurred. The investigation now includes anyone with information about concerning behaviour at military medical examinations, including civilians and personnel from any branch of the armed forces.
Det Supt Hannant added: "We recognise how difficult it can be to come forward with experiences like these, particularly when they occurred many years ago. 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."
Support and Sensitivity Promised to Survivors
Wiltshire Police have assured potential witnesses that all reports will be treated with the utmost sensitivity, with officers committed to listening and supporting those who come forward. Due to the volume of information received, police have warned it may take several weeks to make direct contact with everyone who has reported, but stressed that every account is being taken seriously.
The minister reinforced this message, stating: "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."
Multi-Agency Investigation Underway
Operation Pianora is being supported by the Hampshire-based defence serious crime command and the Ministry of Defence. While police have not provided specific details about potential suspects, it is understood that multiple alleged perpetrators may be involved in the historic allegations being examined.
The investigation represents one of the most significant examinations of alleged sexual misconduct within UK military medical procedures in recent decades, with authorities committed to a thorough review of all evidence presented.
