• Kenyan MPs accuse British troops of sexual misconduct and environmental harm.
• Inquiry highlights a pattern of abuse and negligence by British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK).
• High-profile murder case of Agnes Wanjiru connected to ongoing issues.

A recent parliamentary inquiry in Kenya has highlighted a disturbing trend of misconduct by British troops, including instances of sexual abuse and environmental violations. The report indicates that the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) is increasingly perceived as an "occupying presence," undermining its role as a development partner, according to Reuters, Africanews, and South China Morning Post.

The inquiry, conducted by Kenya’s Defence and Foreign Relations Committee, uncovered serious allegations of sexual violence, including "rape, assault, and abandonment of children" fathered by British soldiers. The report also cites a pattern of neglect in handling unexploded ordnance, contributing to civilian injuries and fatalities, as well as significant environmental damage through illegal dumping of toxic materials, according to Africanews and South China Morning Post.

The inquiry's findings are particularly poignant in light of the ongoing case surrounding the 2012 murder of Agnes Wanjiru, whose death has fueled tensions between Kenya and the UK. The principal suspect, British soldier Robert Purkiss, faces extradition after being arrested, with his defense claiming his innocence. This incident serves as a critical example of the ongoing challenges relating to accountability for British troops in Kenya, according to Reuters, Africanews, and South China Morning Post.

The UK Ministry of Defence has expressed deep regret over these reported issues and has committed to investigating any new evidence provided regarding these serious allegations. The current defence cooperation agreement between the UK and Kenya, which was established in 2021, is set to expire next year, leading to uncertainties in future relations, as highlighted by the inquiry’s findings, according to Reuters, Africanews, and South China Morning Post.