THE MINISTRY of Defence has confirmed that six soldiers and a veteran have been arrested on suspicion of drug, money lending and money-laundering offences.
The MoD said six Irish Guards Troops and a Coldstream Guardsman Veteran were arrested by the Royal Military Police as part of a “planned operation.”
The 1st Battalion Irish Guards are set to lead Thursday’s Trooping the Colour as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
However, the MoD has said that none of those under investigation will be taking part.
In a statement, the MoD said: “The Army does not tolerate any type of illegal or fraudulent behaviour.
“As this is now the subject of an independent Royal Military Police investigation, it is inappropriate to comment further.”
Three of the suspects are still in custody although police are continuing their investigations into the allegations that all seven were involved in supplying drugs.
The soldiers’ ranks range from guardsman to sergeant and the arrests were the result of an intelligence-led operation which started earlier in the year and involved civilian as well as military police.
Whilst the barracks raid was taking place at about 6.30am on Wednesday, a raid on a house in Windsor was also carried out.
Founded in 1900 by Queen Victoria, the Irish Guards have been deployed in both Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Duke of Cambridge is considered the regiment’s royal colonel and is also responsible for guarding royal palaces, where they can be seen in their distinctive red tunic and bearskin hat.
Last week, Prince William presented the Irish Guards with new colours – a flag that acts as a rallying point for the soldiers – as they prepared to lead the parade on the Queen’s birthday.
