Royal Marine Claims Arrest & ‘Terrorist’ Treatment After Criticising Female Recruits in Commandos

A serving Royal Marine from 43 Commando, stationed at Faslane to guard the UK’s nuclear submarines, has sparked major controversy by alleging he was arrested and treated like a terrorist after raising concerns about women joining frontline units.

The unnamed commando shared a 32-minute video online, claiming military leadership is compromising standards to accommodate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies—potentially putting lives at risk. He asserted that fitness requirements for female recruits were being diluted, and said as many as 1,000 Marines had signed a petition demanding stricter adherence to traditional standards.

However, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) strongly rejected any lowering of standards and said only seven women have passed the All Arms Commando Course so far, with none serving in direct combat roles.

According to the Marine, after he shared his views within the chain of command, he was questioned under the UK’s Terrorism Act and briefly held by police. He claimed officers confronted him at an airport, suspecting possible links to far-right ideologies. No charges were filed, and MoD sources insist the man was never officially arrested.

The commando accused the military of orchestrating a “witch hunt” and said he was warned that continuing to speak out could cost him his career. He also claimed a digital survey supporting his stance was removed within 24 hours, while he was later flown to London for interrogation.

Veterans Minister and Royal Marines Reservist Al Carns responded by assuring the public that commando entry standards remain as tough as ever, saying: “The Royal Marines Commando Course standards have not changed, and they will not change.”

The MoD is currently investigating the matter and has emphasized its commitment to maintaining elite standards while rooting out any extremism in the ranks.