AN investigation has found no criminal activity took place following the sharing of footage allegedly depicting dozens of Essex's paratroopers engaging in an orgy.

In footage circulated on social media, a number of men, all reported to be soldiers with 16 Air Assault Brigade, are seen engaging in sex acts with a woman.

It is believed the woman is a civilian who may have been smuggled in to Merville Barracks in Colchester.

The footage shows sexual activity in different areas of the base, some acts taking place in private rooms and others in communal areas.

It remains unclear when the incident took place.

During one piece of footage a serviceman gives a salute as he has sex with the woman.

A Royal Military Police investigation has now concluded no criminal activity took place.

The matter has now been referred to their commanding officer to further investigate.

An Army spokesperson said: “The Army expects the highest standards of behaviour from all their personnel.

“Anyone not maintaining these standards will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken against them.

“The RMP have concluded their investigation, and the matter has now been referred to the commanding officer to investigate.

“We are not prepared to release any personal information on anyone connected with the matter.

“We have a common law and Data Protection Act duty to protect personal details and there is no good reason to release information in this case.”

The Times newspaper reported Defence secretary Ben Wallace, who is also looking into the incident, said: “It makes me think that the army has still not moved forward from 30 years ago.

“I’m uneasy because there are lots of issues.

“The massive power imbalance, even if it was consensual. The culture — what does it say to a future woman who wanted to join the army? And security.”

The Sun reported the woman had visited the base up to 31 times, while the soldiers have reportedly been told to take STD tests.