Navy investigates sailor's rape claim

The Royal Navy has launched an investigation after a female sailor alleged she had been raped at a Navy base, a service spokeswoman confirmed today.

It is understood that a male sailor is being questioned in connection with the incident, which is claimed to have taken place at Portsmouth Naval Base, Hampshire, on July 10.

The incident is being investigated by the Royal Navy Police Special Investigations Branch (RNPSIB).

A Navy spokeswoman confirmed the allegation was of a "serious sexual assault".

The spokeswoman said: "A member of the naval service is assisting Royal Navy Police Special Investigations Branch with their inquiries regarding an alleged incident in Portsmouth Naval Base on July 10.

"The allegation is of a serious sexual assault; however, as this is an ongoing investigation, it would be wholly inappropriate to provide further detail at this time."

The spokeswoman added: "The RNPSIB are full-time investigators that have received specialist police training."