A British soldier has been charged with the rape of a woman serving in the UK armed forces in Cyprus, the Defence Serious Crime Command (DSCC) has announced.
Lance Corporal Nicholas Horne, a member of the 4th Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, also known as The Highlanders, faces one count of rape. The charge was brought on October 23, four days after his arrest on October 19.
The arrest came two days after the DSCC was notified of the alleged attack on a woman serving with British Forces Cyprus. Horne has been remanded in custody while awaiting a court-martial.
Independent Investigation
The DSCC's major crime team conducted the investigation, exercising its mandate to probe serious offences committed by personnel subject to service law, whether in the UK or overseas.
An Army spokesperson confirmed the charge, stating: "We can confirm that Lance Corporal Nicholas Horne was charged with one count of rape, contrary to section 1 of the Sexual Offences Act 2006, on 23rd October 2026, following an investigation by the Defence Serious Crime Command."
The spokesperson added: "There is no place for criminal behaviour in the Army, and we recognise the great courage it takes to come forward and report an offence. Anyone convicted of a sexual offence will be discharged from the service."
The case highlights ongoing efforts within the military to address serious crime and support victims. The DSCC was established to ensure independent investigations into allegations that might otherwise be handled internally.
Background on British Forces Cyprus
The UK maintains two sovereign base areas in Cyprus, Akrotiri and Dhekelia, located in the south and south east of the island. These were retained under a 1960 treaty that granted Cyprus independence and ended its status as a British colony. The bases serve as strategic military installations and host a significant number of UK personnel and their families.
The charge against Horne is a reminder of the legal frameworks that govern military personnel overseas. The case will proceed through the military justice system, with a court-martial date yet to be set.
