Nine Metropolitan (MET) police officers have been suspended amid serious allegations of misogyny, excessive force, and discriminatory behaviour linked to Charing Cross police station in central London.
The force has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which confirmed it is investigating the actions of 11 serving or former officers. The alleged misconduct occurred both on and off duty between August 2024 and January 2025 and was reported by a third party.
In a statement, IOPC regional director Amanda Rowe said, “These are concerning allegations involving a large number of individuals. We understand there will be public concern, particularly given the previous investigation into similar conduct at the same station.”
She added that the watchdog would conduct a robust, independent investigation and is currently seeking evidence from the third-party source who reported the claims.
The officers under investigation range from constable to sergeant. In addition to the nine officers suspended, two others have been removed from frontline duties as a precaution.
Assistant Commissioner, Matt Twist of the Met said, “the behaviour as reported is disgraceful. Nine officers were suspended within 24 hours of the allegations being assessed. Rapid steps to secure evidence and protect the public have also been taken.”
This is not the first time Charing Cross station has been embroiled in controversy. In 2022, an investigation revealed a toxic culture at the station, where 14 officers shared misogynistic, racist, and homophobic messages including jokes about rape and violence against women. The fallout from that scandal contributed to the resignation of then-Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick.
The latest allegations come at a time of heightened public scrutiny of police conduct, especially following the 2021 murder of Sarah Everard by serving Met officer Wayne Couzens, which prompted widespread calls for reform within the force.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who was reportedly outraged by the previous Charing Cross revelations, played a key role in Dame Cressida Dick’s departure two weeks after that report’s release.
The IOPC said the current investigation is still in its early stages and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
