A Metropolitan Police officer has been dismissed without notice after being caught performing wheel spins and weaving through central London streets at speed in a BMW he was not insured to drive. PC Akbar Arabi was pulled over by fellow officers in Westminster on August 23 last year at 2am on Conway Street, Fitzrovia, after he had been spinning the car's wheels and had executed an illegal U-turn with three passengers on board.
Officer's Explanation for Reckless Driving
When questioned about his driving, Arabi told the officers that he was attempting to cheer up a friend. He acknowledged that his driving was wrong but claimed he wanted to give his friend a "thrill." The officers noted that he could not produce a driving licence, insurance, or any personal identification, despite having his phone with him. It later emerged that only one of the passengers was insured to drive the BMW.
Despite this, Arabi asserted that he was insured through a separate vehicle, which he claimed allowed him to drive the BMW. He was permitted to leave after officers instructed him to provide proof of insurance at a police station within seven days. However, he only submitted a lease agreement, which did not cover him for driving any other vehicle. Repeated requests for evidence of insurance entitlement went unanswered.
Disciplinary Hearing and Outcome
The disciplinary hearing, held on July 24 this year and chaired by former Commander Katie Lilburn, concluded that Arabi was not insured to drive any vehicle other than the one he had leased. In her ruling, Lilburn stated: "Having considered the matter fully and having regard to the nature and severity of the breach of the Standards of Professional Behaviour, the sanction I impose is dismissal without notice and the officer should be placed on the College of Policing’s barred list."
The case highlights the Met Police's commitment to upholding professional standards, with the force confirming that the officer's actions were a serious breach of conduct. Arabi's dismissal without notice reflects the gravity of the offence, which included dangerous driving and lack of valid insurance.
Impact on Public Trust
Incidents involving police officers breaking the law can undermine public confidence in the force. The Met Police has stated that it expects the highest standards of behaviour from its officers, both on and off duty. This case serves as a reminder that such conduct will not be tolerated, and the force has moved swiftly to remove the officer from duty.
The College of Policing's barred list prevents dismissed officers from being re-employed in policing roles across the UK, ensuring that those who breach standards cannot continue in the profession. The Met Police has not commented further on the case, but the outcome demonstrates a clear stance against misconduct.
