Hundreds of people have spoken to Wiltshire Police to report allegations of sexual abuse during military medical examinations.
The wide-ranging inquiry was launched by the local force last year after reports of abuse involving some Army recruits during enlistment medicals.
The force has now confirmed the scope of the investigation has expanded to include the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force – with over 500 reports received so far.
Concerns have been raised by both serving and former members of the armed forces, as well as individuals who did not go on to join after attending enlistment medical examinations.
Reports received so far relate to incidents alleged to have taken place between the 1970s and 2016 at various locations across the United Kingdom, including Wiltshire.
Police say every report will be assessed, regardless of how long ago the incident is said to have occurred.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Superintendent Darren Hannant, said: “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.
“We would like to speak to anyone who may have information which can inform our investigation. We recognise how difficult it can be to come forward with experiences like these, particularly when they occurred many years ago.”
He said the enquiry now includes anyone with information about concerning behaviour during military medical examinations, including civilians and those who served in any branch of the armed forces.
“You do not need to be sure whether your experience falls within the scope of this investigation,” he said.
“Our team will assess any report and ensure it is handled appropriately. Any reports will be treated with the utmost sensitivity; our officers will listen and support you.”
Detective Superintendent Hannant added that due to the volume of reports received, it may take several weeks for officers to make direct contact.
“Please be assured that every report is being taken seriously,” he said.
“The information you provide helps us understand what has happened and identify any steps we need to take to safeguard others.”
Veterans Minister Louise Sandher-Jones described the number of people coming forward as “deeply disturbing”.
She said: “The scale of this response is deeply disturbing, but it highlights the courage of those coming forward to share these distressing experiences, and I want to assure every single person that their voice matters.
“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.”
She added: “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.”
Anyone wishing to share information can report directly to the investigation team via the public portal. Victims and survivors of sexual assault can access support through information on the Wiltshire Police website, the Government’s website, and by visiting www.whenyouareready.co.uk.
