An urgent investigation is ongoing regarding allegations that certain Metropolitan Police officers failed in their duty to safeguard King Charles III at Windsor Castle, with reports indicating instances of officers sleeping on duty. Approximately 30 officers from the Met’s Royalty and Specialist Protection squad are under scrutiny for potential misconduct, as disclosed by The Sun. The team responsible for security at the castle is the Royalist and Specialist Protection unit, even though the castle falls under the jurisdiction of Thames Valley Police.
According to The Sun, both the King and the Royal Household are informed about the investigation. There are allegations suggesting officers not fulfilling their post duties after reporting for duty. These serious claims may result in officers being suspended and investigated for potential misconduct and neglect of duty.
The Metropolitan Police and Buckingham Palace have been reached out to for comments by The Mirror. The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards is expected to make a decision regarding the status of the officers involved by the end of the following week. Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley of the Met stated that an urgent probe has been initiated due to concerns over the conduct of several officers assigned to protective duties at Windsor Castle. The allegations include officers abandoning their posts and sleeping while on duty.
The specialist unit’s responsibilities encompass foot patrols, monitoring castle entrances, and employing security measures such as alarms, sensors, and fencing. Recent security breaches at the royal estate have heightened scrutiny on the current standards of the Metropolitan Police. The protection of Windsor Castle is under constant risk assessment, particularly due to the valuable artwork housed within. Security measures are intensified when members of the Royal Family are present to ensure the safety of the premises.
