Stranded soldiers got into a boozy brawl after downing free drinks at an all-inclusive luxury resort in Cape Verde when their RAF transport plane broke down, it was claimed last night.
About 100 troops, who were headed for the Falklands, were reportedly put up in resorts, including the five-star Melia Tortuga, after being told they were stuck in Africa.
Army bosses are thought to have spent £40,000 for their accommodation.
A source told The Sun: "One minute they were being sent to the bottom of the world — the next they’re on a sunshine break complete with a free bar.
"As soon as they arrived at the hotel they got ‘all inclusive’ wristbands and went straight to the bar.
"Tables were piled high with drinks."
At the hotel, the soldiers headed straight for the bar and some sunbathed in their underwear, reports say.
But police were called after violence allegedly broke out.
Four soldiers were arrested for brawling before two were charged the following day and fined £150 each, according to reports.
Soldiers, mainly from the Royal Engineers, had been sent from the UK to the Falklands on Tuesday to repair a runway but the plane developed a technical problem after a planned stop at Sal, Cape Verde, to refuel.
An Army spokesperson told Mirror Online: “We can confirm that two soldiers have appeared in court in Cape Verde and have been fined.
"Anyone found to have fallen short of the Army's high standards will be dealt with administratively and may face sanctions up to and including dismissal.”