Officer Arrested After Secret Filming Exposes Racist Comments

A serving officer from the Metropolitan Police has been arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice following the revelation of secret footage that captured police officers making racist and sexist remarks. The footage, obtained undercover for a BBC Panorama documentary, allegedly shows officers at Charing Cross Police Station in London calling for violence against immigrants and boasting about using excessive force against suspects.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a sergeant from the Central West Basic Command Unit was arrested on **October 2, 2023**, and has since been released on bail while suspended from duty. A police spokesperson stated, “The allegation relates to an incident that took place at Charing Cross Police Station on 2 October and is linked to matters disclosed in BBC Panorama. The investigation is ongoing, so it would not be appropriate to go into further detail at this time.” The **Independent Office for Police Conduct** has been informed and is conducting its own investigation regarding the allegations.

Internal Investigations and Official Responses

Deputy Assistant Commissioner **Andy Valentine** emphasized the police’s commitment to addressing issues at Charing Cross and across the Metropolitan Police. He stated, “We have been extremely clear we will be unrelenting in our approach to tackling issues at Charing Cross, and anywhere else across the Met.” Valentine noted that the current investigation came to light through the internal reporting mechanisms and encouraged officers to report any criminal or misconduct behavior.

The documentary has prompted significant public and political reaction. Prime Minister **Sir Keir Starmer**, although not having seen the footage, described its content as “shocking” and stressed the need for a robust response from the police commissioner. In response, Met Commissioner **Sir Mark Rowley** reassured Londoners that they could trust the “vast majority” of the officers in the force but expressed his horror at the revelations in the documentary.

Details of the Allegations

The documentary features disturbing comments from several officers, including one instance where Police Constable **Phil Neilson** suggested violent measures against immigrants who had overstayed their visas. He stated, “Either put a bullet through his head or deport him,” and made derogatory remarks about specific immigrant groups. Another officer, Police Constable **Martin Borg**, was recorded boasting about a colleague stamping on a detainee’s leg and laughing about the suspect’s screams.

In total, nine serving officers, one former officer, and a civilian detention officer are now under investigation for gross misconduct. Allegations against them include excessive use of force, making discriminatory comments, and failing to report inappropriate behavior. One constable is facing a criminal investigation related to perverting the course of justice.

The Metropolitan Police’s action reflects a broader concern regarding accountability and integrity within the force, particularly following these serious allegations. As investigations continue, both the public and officials await further developments in this troubling case.