Imogen Rogers – 15th May 2025 at 10:11am
Less than three months into his post, a Royal Navy commander has been removed from his role while being investigated over sexual allegations.
It’s understood Lieutenant Commander Martyn Mayger was removed from command this past week.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed “that a member of the Armed Forces is under investigation by the Defence Serious Crime Command in respect of these allegations”.
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“As the matter is subject to an ongoing investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment further,” the MOD added.
“We have a zero-tolerance approach to criminal and inappropriate behaviour.
“Our people can be assured that should they raise any allegation, they will be fully supported, and the matter investigated, with appropriate action taken as required.”
Senior officers can be removed from command and duties if there’s reasonable suspicion of a sexual relationship with a subordinate within their chain of command.
Lt Cdr Mayger took charge of HMS Tyne in February – the vessel’s executive officer is taking his place temporarily.
The River-class offshore patrol vessel operates in UK and European waters on security tasks – protecting the UK’s interests and remains ready to carry out marine enforcement operations.
Earlier this month, she was deployed as part of a Nato operation to shadow the Russian Kilo-class submarine Krasnodar as it made its way back to Russia from the eastern Mediterranean.
Tyne intercepted the Krasnodar when it entered the English Channel near the French coast and monitored its movements as it headed east – the crew then handed over to Nato allies as the submarine left UK waters.
The allegations against Lt Cdr Mayger come after the former head of Royal Navy, Sir Benjamin Key, was told to step back amid reports of an alleged affair with a subordinate – the MoD said the investigation was “ongoing.”
General Sir Gwyn Jenkins has now been named as the new head of the Royal Navy – following the earlier-than-expected departure of his predecessor.
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