The Metropolitan Police's investigation into alleged misconduct by royal protection officers has been widened to include officers at Buckingham Palace. The probe, which initially focused on Windsor Castle, has already resulted in misconduct notices being served to 23 officers from the Royalty and Specialist Protection (RaSP) unit.
Allegations include officers leaving their posts unattended and sleeping while on duty, raising concerns about the security of King Charles III. The Met's Directorate of Professional Standards is leading the investigation, with the Independent Office for Police Conduct informed and allowing local handling.
A source told The Sun that the probe is expanding to examine RaSP officers at Buckingham Palace and other royal residences, citing fears that lax practices at Windsor may be widespread. The Met confirmed that enquiries are ongoing into conduct at other royal locations.
Of the 23 officers served with misconduct notices, 21 have been placed on restricted duties, while the remaining two are not formally restricted but will not be deployed to any royal residence during the investigation. The King and the Royal Household are aware of the probe.
Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley stated that the alleged behaviour falls below the high standards expected of officers, particularly in frontline protective roles. The RaSP unit is responsible for security at royal residences, including foot patrols and manning entrances, supplemented by alarms, sensors, and fencing.
