Shropshire Star

Mystery solved: Member of Brunei royal family was on RAF training course in Shropshire

The mystery of the prince from Brunei spotted on the side of a road in Shropshire has been solved.

Published
His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei

His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei, in Asia, uploaded a photograph of himself wearing army gear in Shropshire to his Instagram account last week.

The picture was liked by more than 144,000 people around the world with almost 2,000 users commenting on it.

But the popular prince wasn't just posing – His Royal Highness was participating in a training course at RAF Shawbury.

Kim Leach, based at the base, said: "I can confirm that, following completion of elementary flying training at Royal Air Force Cranwell in April, His Royal Highness Prince Captain Abdul Mateen of Brunei is currently based at RAF Shawbury.

"He is undergoing training on the single engine rotary wing course, flying the Squirrel helicopter at the defence helicopter flying school in preparation for qualifying as a helicopter pilot.

"As well as flying training, the course includes participation in sport, adventure training, force development and a community project, which took place recently in Shawbury village.

"This programme is part of International Defence Training, which contributes to Defence Diplomacy and helps to build lasting relationships within the International Defence community, our allies and partners."

Prince Mateen is the 10th child of Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Prime Minister of Brunei. He also plays for the national polo team.

The 26-year-old is also said to be active in charitable works and played for the national football team.

Mateen completed a master’s degree in International Diplomacy at SOAS, University of London last year.