Scandal related to the security of the British royal family. Dozens of policemen are suspected of serious negligence
More than 20 police officers responsible for protecting the British royal family have been given restricted duties after some were accused of falling asleep on duty at Windsor Castle or leaving their posts, London police said, cited by Reuters.
A total of 23 officers in the royal family's security service have been given misconduct notices and 21 of them have been kept on reduced duties following an investigation launched last month by London's Metropolitan Police.
“The alleged behavior falls below the high standards required of these officers, particularly those in frontline protection roles,” a police spokesman said.
The scandal erupted after The Sun newspaper wrote that some agents were accused of leaving their posts unattended at Windsor, one of King Charles III's residences, or even falling asleep on duty.
The police have a special unit designed to protect members of the royal family and guard their residences.
The two officers who were not given restricted duties will not be used at the royal residences until the investigation is completed, with further investigations also being opened into security at other residences.
Windsor Castle, west of London, is frequently used for both royal stays and state ceremonies, such as welcoming US President Donald Trump in 2025.
Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.
