The Metropolitan Police has launched an urgent investigation into allegations that officers assigned to protect the royal family at Windsor Castle were sleeping while on duty and abandoned their posts. The force confirmed that an unspecified number of officers from the royalty and specialist protection team are under scrutiny after concerns were raised. The Sun newspaper, which first reported the story, suggested that up to 30 officers may be involved.
Allegations and Investigation
The allegations include officers leaving their posts unattended and sleeping during their shifts, behavior that falls below the high standards expected of police officers, particularly those in frontline protective roles. The Met's Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS) has initiated an urgent investigation, and the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has been informed. The IOPC concluded that the matter will be investigated locally by the Met.
Next Steps
The DPS is assessing whether any of the officers under investigation should be placed on restricted duties. A decision is expected before the end of next week. The royal family has been informed of the situation.
A Met spokesperson stated: 'The Met's directorate of professional standards has launched an urgent investigation following concerns raised regarding the conduct of a number of officers on protective duties at Windsor Castle. The allegations include officers leaving posts unattended and sleeping while on duty. The alleged behaviour falls below the high standards expected of officers, particularly in frontline protective roles.'
Buckingham Palace declined to comment, and the IOPC was unavailable for comment at the time of reporting.
