In a shocking development, a police officer who was part of U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s close protection team has been arrested over alleged bets on the timing of Britain’s general election. The Metropolitan Police confirmed Wednesday night that a police constable from its Royalty and Specialist Protection Command had been suspended and arrested in connection with a Gambling Commission investigation into alleged bets “related to the timing of the general election.”
The Met Police swiftly referred the matter to its own standards bureau and removed the officer from operational duties. The Independent Office for Police Conduct has also been informed of the situation.
According to the police statement, the officer was arrested on Monday “on suspicion of misconduct in public office” and was subsequently “taken into custody and bailed pending further enquiries.” The Gambling Commission is leading the investigation into the alleged betting offenses, with the Met Police’s investigation running in parallel.
A spokesperson for the Gambling Commission confirmed that they are “investigating the possibility of offenses concerning the date of the election” but declined to provide further details due to the ongoing nature of the investigation.
This incident comes on the heels of another investigation involving Sunak’s close parliamentary aide, Craig Williams, who was placed under scrutiny by the Gambling Commission for an alleged bet made days before Sunak announced the surprise date of Britain’s July 4 election.
The arrest and suspension of a police officer from the prime minister’s security detail over alleged election-related bets raise serious concerns about the integrity and professionalism of those entrusted with protecting the nation’s leader. As the investigations by the Gambling Commission and the Met Police unfold, the public will be closely watching for any further developments in this troubling case.
The allegations of misconduct and betting offenses within Sunak’s inner circle have the potential to cast a shadow over his leadership and the upcoming general election. As the prime minister navigates the challenges of the campaign trail, he will undoubtedly face questions about the conduct of those closest to him and the measures being taken to ensure the highest standards of integrity and transparency within his administration.
Politico
