Two constables from the Metropolitan Police have been arrested and suspended from duty following allegations of misconduct during a holiday in Budapest, Hungary. The arrests stem from an incident involving approximately 15 off-duty officers from the same station who were on a trip in June.
A female officer has alleged that during a gathering, one male officer forcefully removed her from a room and took her to his own, accusing him of assault. She further alleges that a second male colleague sexually assaulted her. There is no suggestion that the first officer attempted to engage in sexual activity with her.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that one officer was arrested on Monday, August 31, on suspicion of assault. A second officer was arrested on Thursday, September 3, on suspicion of sexual assault. Both officers are attached to the Central North Command. They have been bailed and suspended from duty pending the outcome of the investigation.
Sources have indicated that Scotland Yard is conducting an internal investigation, led by its Directorate of Professional Standards, to determine the exact events that transpired. The investigation is reportedly focusing on a perceived lack of supervision, with senior officers who were part of the group being questioned about their role in the events.
It is understood that some officers in the group were already in sexual relationships prior to the alleged incident. The group had been staying in a large house in Budapest rented via Airbnb. Reports suggest that the events occurred during a night of heavy drinking.