Police officers assigned to protect the royal family at Windsor Castle are facing an investigation following allegations that they slept while on duty. The Metropolitan Police's Royalty and Specialist Protection unit has come under scrutiny after concerns were raised about the conduct of several officers, according to a report by The Sun.
Allegations of Negligence
The allegations include officers abandoning their posts unattended and sleeping during their shifts. These claims have prompted an urgent inquiry by the Met's Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS). The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has also been notified of the situation.
Investigation and Potential Restrictions
The DPS is expected to decide by the end of next week whether any of the officers under investigation should be placed on restricted duties. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police stated: "The Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards has launched an urgent investigation following concerns raised regarding the conduct of a number of officers on protective duties at Windsor Castle. The allegations include officers leaving posts unattended and sleeping while on duty. The alleged behaviour falls below the high standards expected of officers, particularly in frontline protective roles."
The spokesperson added: "The Independent Office for Police Conduct has been informed and concluded that this matter will be investigated locally by the Met. As part of their inquiries, DPS is assessing whether any of those under investigation should be placed on restricted duties. A decision is expected to be made on this before the end of next week."
Official Responses
Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the matter, and the IOPC was unavailable for comment at the time of reporting. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to uphold the high standards expected of officers in such sensitive protective roles.
