Royal Navy officer is relieved of duty as female sailor accuses him of sexual assault in Amsterdam

A Royal Navy officer has been relieved of duty as a female sailor accuses him of sexual assault after a boozy night in Amsterdam. 

The officer was serving on the Navy’s third biggest ship, HMS Albion, when the alleged incident happened over the weekend.

It has been reported that he molested the female sailor after drinking in Amsterdam, while walking back to the ship. 

He could face criminal charges and an end to his career in the Navy — but has not been charged by police.

A source in the Navy said that the serious allegation brings the service into disrepute.

‘There is an attitude among seamen that “boys will be boys” but this kind of behaviour is unacceptable in every walk of life. The Navy has zero tolerance for it,’ they told The Sun.

‘If the allegations are proven it’s not just a gross breach of his authority but a criminal offence, plain and simple.’

Another source, close to the incident, told the paper that the officer had ‘tried it on’ with his female colleague and touched her inappropriately. 

It has been reported that he molested the female sailor after drinking in Amsterdam, while walking back to the ship. Pictured, the HMS Albion, where the officer was serving

The officer was questioned on Sunday morning by the Royal Navy Police, after the woman made a formal complaint.

Simon Kelly, HMS Albion’s captain, ordered the officer to leave the ship, while further enquiries are made.

The ship has a 400-strong crew of sailors and Marines.

A spokesperson for the Royal Navy said that it demands the ‘highest of standards’ and takes all allegations seriously.

‘We are currently investigating an incident on HMS Albion and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time,’ they said.