The Royal Navy has confirmed a major lockdown at HMS Raleigh—its flagship training base in Torpoint, Cornwall—amid a criminal investigation into alleged revenge porn.

The incident centres on intimate photos of a young female recruit that were reportedly circulated among fellow trainees without consent. The explicit content was allegedly shared by her former partner, also a recruit, who has since left the Navy.

‘River City’ Lockdown Initiated

The base was placed in a ‘River City’ communication blackout, an internal protocol designed to restrict digital activity and prevent sensitive content from spreading. All recruits—some as young as 16—were ordered to hand in their mobile phones as military investigators and civilian police launched a joint inquiry.

A message reportedly sent to parents confirmed that the under-18s were safe but said a police investigation required a temporary block on communications. The blackout could last up to 96 hours, though the Navy has not confirmed a timeline.

A Royal Navy spokesperson said:

“We expect the highest standards from our people and have a zero-tolerance approach to criminal and inappropriate behaviour. The welfare of our recruits is our number one priority.”

Pattern of Scandal in the Navy

This is not the first time the Royal Navy has faced an X-rated controversy:

• In 2023, Naval Airman Zac Blackman was dismissed after selling OnlyFans content filmed aboard HMS Prince of Wales, reportedly earning up to £20,000 a month.
• In 2021, Lieutenant Claire Jenkins was caught making “porn-to-order” videos with her then-partner aboard the HMS Artful nuclear submarine at HMNB Clyde in Scotland.

Both scandals prompted investigations by the Ministry of Defence and heightened scrutiny over privacy, professionalism, and discipline within the armed forces.

Police Investigation Ongoing

The current HMS Raleigh case is now in the hands of civilian police, and only one individual is under formal investigation, according to internal sources. There is no suggestion that other recruits took part in distributing the content.

The alleged perpetrator, a former recruit, reportedly left before completing training, but the Navy is working to contain the spread of the images and protect the victim’s identity and welfare.

Reputation and Reform

The Royal Navy is under pressure to protect young recruits, especially as HMS Raleigh is often the first posting for 16- and 17-year-olds entering military service.

Defence experts have urged the Ministry of Defence to tighten safeguarding, especially around mobile phone usage, privacy policies, and digital communication on bases.

Support and Reporting

• If you or someone you know has been affected by image-based abuse, support is available via the Revenge Porn Helpline (0345 6000 459).
• The Royal Navy also offers confidential welfare support for all serving personnel.