A police officer, part of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s close protection team, has this evening been suspended and subsequently arrested due to allegations of betting on the timing of the general election.

The Metropolitan Police were notified by the Gambling Commission last Friday, which reported that it was investigating bets allegedly placed by a police constable from the Met’s royalty and specialist protection command. In response to the notification, the Met stated that the issue was “immediately referred to officers in the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards.” Consequently, an investigation was initiated, and the officer in question was removed from operational duties.

The situation escalated as the officer was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was detained and subsequently released on bail, pending further inquiries.

Additionally, this case has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct for further examination.

The Met confirmed that the Gambling Commission is leading the investigation into the alleged betting activities. Meanwhile, their internal investigation is being conducted concurrently with that of the Gambling Commission. A representative from the Gambling Commission has recently stated: “The Commission oversees gambling activities to protect consumer interests and public welfare.

Commission probes during campaign rising tensions

At present, the Commission is examining potential violations related to the election date.

“As the investigation is active, the Commission is not in a position to disclose additional information currently.”

This is not the first allegation related to election date betting during this campaign.

In a separate incident, Conservative candidate Craig Williams, who previously served as a parliamentary aide to Sunak, issued an apology last week. He admitted to making a “huge error of judgement” following accusations that he placed a ￡100 bet on a July election just three days before the 4 July poll was announced.

Williams stated that he would fully cooperate with the Gambling Commission’s inquiries into the matter.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s election campaign is facing significant challenges, and his unpopularity is on the rise.

Find out more about?SiGMA East Europe Summit 2024?to be held in Budapest.

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