Hundreds of women who joined the British Army have come forward alleging sexual abuse during medical examinations over the past five decades, sources told The Times UK. The claims, spanning from the 1970s to 2016, involve multiple army locations across the United Kingdom and have prompted Wiltshire police to launch an investigation, codenamed Operation Pianora.
A defence source confirmed that women reported abuse either during enlistment medical checks or while performing medical duties as part of their service. Wiltshire police established the investigation earlier this year after recruits reported their experiences. Last week, the force issued a public appeal for witnesses and anyone affected, though it remains unclear why the probe was not launched sooner.
Lieutenant General David Eastman, deputy chief of the general staff, said: “There is absolutely no place in the British Army for sexual abuse and misconduct. I am alarmed to learn that, for some of our people, their first experiences of military life may have subjected them to such unacceptable behaviours.” He urged anyone who experienced “criminal, inappropriate or unusual behaviour during their enlistment medical examinations” to contact Wiltshire police.
Police sources indicate that the doctors implicated were civilian contractors, not directly employed by the Ministry of Defence, and it is unclear whether a single doctor or multiple individuals are involved. The force is also coordinating with other police services across the UK to identify affected individuals.
Veterans Minister Louise Sandher-Jones praised the courage of those coming forward, saying: “I will stand with you every step of the way in your fight for justice, and the MoD will give its full backing to Wiltshire police’s investigation. All those who choose to serve our country must be able to do so free from abuse, and with the dignity and respect they deserve.”
The revelations arrive amid a wider recruitment crisis in the British military, with more troops leaving than joining. Defence Secretary John Healey has announced multi-million-pound housing improvements to encourage retention.
The Times UK previously reported that campaigners believe conditions for women in the military may be worsening, despite previous pledges by service chiefs to tackle misogyny and abuse. Sarah Atherton, a former MP who inspired the military “Me Too” movement in 2021, said she continues to receive reports of bullying and harassment from female service members. “It’s getting worse, and I’m not convinced we are making headway any more,” she said.
The allegations have also emerged during inquests into the death of Royal Artillery Gunner Jaysley Beck, 19, who was found dead at Larkhill Camp in December 2021. Beck had reported being sexually assaulted by a superior, and a coroner concluded that the army’s handling of her complaint contributed to her death. Over 1,000 women have since shared their experiences through military-focused social media accounts, highlighting ongoing concerns about the treatment of female soldiers in the UK armed forces.
