A police constable working as part of the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s protection team was arrested this week for allegedly making bets related to the timing of the general election, according to police sources. The officer was arrested on Monday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, as confirmed by a Metropolitan Police spokesperson on Wednesday.
The Metropolitan Police were alerted by the Gambling Commission about alleged bets made by the constable from the Met’s Royalty and Specialist Protection Command regarding the timing of the General Election. Following the arrest, the constable was removed from operational duties, and the matter was referred to the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards for investigation.
This incident comes in the wake of reports that a close aide of Sunak had placed a bet on a July election date before it was publicly announced. The aide, Craig Williams, publicly apologized for his actions, acknowledging a significant error in judgment.
The Gambling Commission is leading the probe into the alleged betting offenses, with the Met police conducting a parallel investigation. The Prime Minister's office declined to comment further on the matter.
As the UK general election approaches on July 4, Sunak's Conservative Party faces challenges, with opinion polls indicating a significant lead for the opposition Labour Party. Sunak's campaign has been marred by controversies, including a recent apology for leaving the 80th-anniversary commemorations of D-Day early to film a TV interview, sparking criticism in Britain.
Amidst these developments, the constable's arrest for betting on the election has drawn attention, with social media reactions reflecting public concern over the integrity of the electoral process.
