HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC -- A Bermuda Regiment soldier absent without leave for seven years has been heavily fined after being caught on his return home from overseas, authorities said.

The unnamed soldier -- one of around 100 men who have dodged their regiment duty -- was detained at the L.F. Wade International Airport when he recently returned to the island after an extended stay abroad.

Regiment Adjutant Major Benjamin Beasley said the soldier had been given a “substantial” fine after appearing in front of the new British Commanding Officer, Lt Col Michael Foster-Brown, and returned to the active duty list.