Ministry of Defence Launches Investigation into Jeffrey Epstein's Alleged Use of RAF Bases

MoD Orders Extensive Review

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has launched a significant investigation into allegations that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein utilized Royal Air Force (RAF) bases for sex trafficking activities. Defence Secretary John Healey personally ordered the review, instructing officials to meticulously examine more than two decades of military records. The objective is to uncover any evidence related to Epstein's flights landing at RAF bases and to provide all pertinent information to the relevant authorities for civilian police investigations.

Catalyst for the Investigation

The decision to initiate this in-depth inquiry follows a 'memorandum of evidence' sent by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown to six police forces, urging investigations into Epstein's potential use of RAF facilities. Additionally, recently released flight log data from the 'Epstein Files' indicated that Epstein made a total of 90 flights to and from British airports between the early 1990s and 2018. Claims suggest Epstein's private jet landed at RAF bases, specifically mentioning RAF Marham in Norfolk and RAF Northolt near London. One particular flight in December 2000, where Epstein's Gulfstream plane reportedly landed at RAF Marham, near the Sandringham Estate, has drawn specific attention.

Scope and Official Stance

An MoD spokesperson affirmed the department's commitment to the investigation, stating, 'The defence secretary has ordered a review of all records that the department may hold relating to Epstein flights landing at RAF bases to ensure that any information which relates to Epstein's crimes is uncovered and provided to the relevant authorities.' The spokesperson added that the MoD 'will support any civilian police investigations' and extended thoughts to 'all the victims of Epstein's vile crimes.' While private jets are permitted to use RAF airfields by prior arrangement and for a fee, provided they do not interfere with security or operations, landings at a key frontline base like RAF Marham are considered rare, unlike the more regular use of RAF Northolt.

Related Developments and Political Response

This investigation unfolds amidst broader scrutiny of Epstein's connections in the UK. Earlier this month, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and former UK ambassador to Washington, Lord Peter Mandelson, were arrested and subsequently released on bail over alleged links with the convicted sex offender, following the release of files in January. Gordon Brown's dossier also raised questions about whether Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor used taxpayer-funded jets and RAF bases during his time as trade envoy to meet Epstein. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, when questioned, indicated that flight logs from UK airports and RAF bases could not be released until active police investigations surrounding the sex trafficker have concluded, and he has avoided calls for a public inquiry, emphasizing that police investigations should proceed first.