Six Metropolitan Police officers have been suspended following allegations that they tortured drugs suspects.
The Enfield-based officers are being investigated by the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), following accusations that they tortured suspects arrested during drugs raids on 4 November last year. The torture allegedly included waterboarding, which involves covering the suspect’s face with a cloth and pouring water on it, simulating drowning.
The alleged incidents came to light when a police employee blew the whistle during a separate internal investigation into apparent mishandling of property. All six officers have been suspended or placed on restricted duties. While none of them have been arrested, the IPCC said last night: “This is an ongoing criminal investigation and as such all six officers will be criminally interviewed under caution.”
A Scotland Yard spokesman said: “These are serious allegations that raise real concern. The Met does not tolerate conduct that falls below the standards that the public and the many outstanding Met officers and staff expect.”
He added: “Any allegations of such behaviour are treated very seriously, as this case illustrates, and if found true, the strongest possible action will be taken.”
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The torture claims have already led to the abandonment of a drug trial, it has been reported, as any revelations about torture would have compromised the criminal investigation into the six officers.
Meanwhile, Metropolitan Police officers are currently under investigation for alleged brutality during the recent G20 protests in London.
