Military Police Investigating Racist Graffiti At Cyprus Base

Military police are investigating a racist hate crime carried out at a British Army base in Cyprus.

A black soldier found racist graffiti sprayed on their car at the Dhekelia camp.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) has confirmed a criminal investigation has been launched.

Photographs have been posted on social media showing a white car covered in writing which included the N-word.

The MOD has condemned the attack and a spokesperson told Forces News: "We are actively supporting the criminal investigation into this repellent and wholly unacceptable incident.

"We always take the strongest action possible against those responsible for this type of unacceptable behaviour, which is contrary to all we exemplify as an open and welcoming organisation, which draws and relies on people from across the whole of society."

In June the head of the UK Armed Forces General Sir Nick Carter said "significant progress" had been made in tackling racism in the services.

But in a letter addressed to the chain of command, General Sir Nick Carter said "discrimination has no place" in the Armed Forces and that the military has "more to do" to stop it. 

Recruits from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds account for 8% of the Armed Forces - the MOD has a target to boost that to 10% during the next year.