Secret filming by the BBC exposed the “toxic culture” of misogyny and racism at the police station
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has said he was left “sickened” by the behaviour of Metropolitan Police officers at Charing Cross station which featured in a BBC Panorama last night. Secret filming by the BBC exposed the “toxic culture” of misogyny and racism at the police station.
The documentary led to the suspension of eight police officers, as well as one staff member. A referral was also made to the Independent Office for Police Misconduct.
Now, the Mayor has issued a damning statement condemning the behaviour of the police officers involved. He said: “When I was informed of the appalling police behaviour that would be exposed by BBC Panorama, I knew it would be difficult to watch.
“But nothing can prepare you for seeing this kind of footage. It was sickening to watch police officers – those who are tasked with keeping our communities safe – display such blatant racism, misogyny, anti-Muslim hatred and excess use of force. I know that I won’t be alone in feeling angry, disgusted and let down by the actions of these officers.
“Since being informed about this matter I have met with the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner to discuss the horrifying events and further actions that need to be taken. I am quite clear, there must be zero tolerance of this kind of behaviour, a transformation in Met cultures and no hiding place for officers who abuse this position of trust.
“I can assure Londoners I will continue to hold the Met to account to make as it makes vital reforms. I will not be satisfied until Londoners have the police service they deserve – one that is trusted and delivers the highest possible service to every community in our city.”
Charing Cross was the centre of another scandal in 2022, when it was revealed that misogyny, discrimination, bullying and sexual harassment was taking place at the station. Police officers were found to have joked about rape and exchanged offensive social media messages.
The scandal came less than a year after the rape and murder of Sarah Everard by serving Met police officer Wayne Couzens. A review of the force, by Dame Louise Casey, the Met was found to be institutionally misogynistic, homophobic and racist. A programme of systematic and cultural change was then said to have taken place.
Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said: “Officers behaving in such appalling, criminal ways, let down our communities and will cause some to question if their sons and daughters are safe in our cells, and whether they would be believed and respected as victims of crime.
“For that, I am truly sorry.
“In line with our uncompromising approach, within 48 hours of these allegations being received, nine officers and one staff member had been suspended, with two more officers removed from frontline duties.
“It’s my expectation that for those involved, where there is incontrovertible evidence of racism, misogyny, anti-Muslim sentiment or bragging about excessive use of force, they will be put on a fast-track hearing within weeks and on a path to likely dismissal.”
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