In any event, the soldier is in deep crap over this. Abuse of prisoners is a crime, no doubt. No matter who they may be.
'More to come' By JOHN KAY
THE Army probe into the photos scandal has been stepped up amid fears that a “hornets’ nest” of horror could be unearthed.
Lt Col Jeremy Green, commanding officer of the Special Investigations Branch, last night took personal charge of the inquiry.
And a source close to the investigation said: “There is a genuine fear that this is not just a scandal involving one 18-year-old Fusilier.
“Our biggest worry is that the reputation of 1 Battalion, the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, will be besmirched.”
Fuslier Gary Bartlam, 18, is being held in custody at an Army base where he is being grilled by senior Special Investigation Branch officers. He is unlikely to be released until the probe is completed.
One source said that some of the photos appeared to show simulated sex acts but “even if that is so, it would not excuse the behaviour.”
A Royal Military Police source said: “We are braced for more scandals to come out — it could become a real hornets’ nest with more horrific revelations.
“But we have a duty to investigate thoroughly and no stone will be left unturned.
“Whatever the circumstances, there is no excuse for British soldiers to maltreat PoWs. Our first job is to establish how many of the regiment may be involved.
“That includes finding out if NCOs and platoon commander knew of these activities.”
Lt Col Green immediately widened the probe to cover the entire regiment.
A lieutenant who was Bartlam’s platoon commander, plus a sergeant and three corporals, will be quizzed and statements taken from others in Bartlam’s platoon.
A senior Ministry of Defence spokeswoman said: “If there is any truth in these allegations the MoD is appalled and would stress we take our responsibilities to PoWs extremely seriously.”