Scots soldier charged with rape of servicewoman in Cyprus

RAF Akrotiri on Cyprus, one of the bases of UK armed forces on the island | Getty Images

A Scots soldier has been charged with the rape of a woman serving with the UK armed forces in Cyprus.

Lance Corporal Nicholas Horne, 35, who serves in the 4th Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Scotland– also known as The Highlanders – was charged with one count of rape on October 23, the Defence Serious Crime Command (DSCC) said.

He was arrested on October 19, two days after the DSCC was informed of the reported rape of a woman serving in the British Forces Cyprus, which is part of the British Army, the police organisation added.

LCpl Horne was remanded in custody pending a court-martial hearing.

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The charge comes after an investigation of the DSCC’s Major Crime Team, carried with Service Police partners.

The DSCC said anyone affected by sexual offences in the Armed Forces is encouraged to contact them.

Lance Corporal is the second lowest soldier rank in the British Army and typically involves the commanding and administration of a team of around four people, according to the British Army’s website.

An Army spokesperson said: “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.

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“As this is the subject of ongoing legal proceedings, it would be inappropriate to comment further.

“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.”