Germany: Soldiers accused of 'sadistic sexual rituals'

Photo: DPA

BELGRADE - The German army is currently embroiled in a scandal after reports surfaced of "sadistic sexual practices" on trainees at an elite army camp in Pfullendorf, Baden-Württemberg.

German media first reported on Friday that during the training of combat first responders, "sexually sadistic practices" were employed as part of the programme, according to Spiegel Online.

Seven soldiers have been suspended and are to be dismissed without notice amid an investigation against them regarding grievous bodily harm against trainees, as well as false imprisonment, and sexual assault.

Prosecutors have also asked the Bundeswehr (German army) to submit further information about other cases of sexual abuse.

According to Spiegel, an investigation was first launched in October 2016 after a female lieutenant reported incidents directly to the Defence Ministry....