More than twenty officers responsible for the security of the British royal family have been suspended after allegedly falling asleep on duty and leaving their posts unattended.
Source: Reuters, BBC
London’s Metropolitan Police has announced that 23 officers from its Royalty and Specialist Protection command have been given disciplinary notices. In addition, 21 officers have been suspended after an “urgent investigation” that started last month.
The allegations first came to light when British newspaper ‘The Sun’ reported that officers were accused of leaving their posts unattended and sleeping while on duty.
Royal protection
The specialized police unit protects members of the royal family and guards royal residences. “The alleged behavior does not meet the high standards expected of officers, particularly in roles where protection is paramount,” a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said.
The two officers who have not been suspended may not be deployed to royal residences while the investigation is ongoing. In the meantime, the security of other royal residences will also be investigated, the spokesperson said.
Windsor Castle is one of the official residences of King Charles III and is regularly used by senior members of the Royal Family for private and state functions. The royal family was informed of the investigation, but has not yet commented.