London (AFP) – 11/02/2022. 10:25
Ethical scandals in the security apparatus in the British capital, London
- London Police Presidency in 2017 It’s ‘I have no choice but to step down’
- A series of scandals that shook the security force related to racist issues
Police chief announced London Cressida Dick resigned Thursday after a series of scandals rocked the British capital’s security force over cases of racism, sexism and the killing of a young woman by a police officer.
Dick said who was the first woman to take over London Police Presidency in 2017 It is “I have no choice but to step down” after London Mayor Sadiq Khan lost confidence in her leadership.
Khan said Thursday he was “dissatisfied with the response of the Metropolitan Police Commissioner” after telling her that sweeping changes were needed “to eradicate racism, sexism, homophobia, discrimination and misogyny” in the force’s ranks.
Dick said she was “deeply saddened” but “it is clear that the mayor no longer has enough confidence in my leadership to continue.”
The sudden resignation of the police commissioner comes as her force is tasked with investigating the “Partygate scandal” which centers around alleged parties held by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in violation of Corona virus restrictions.
Dick said she would remain in the position for a short period of time, pending the appointment of a successor, “to ensure the stability of the work of the London Police”.
The 61-year-old commissioner has long faced calls to resign after scandals including the rape and murder of then-police officer Wayne Cousins, Sarah Everard, in March 2021.
Dick noted this in her resignation statement, expressing her regret for this crime as well as “several other horrific cases recently which I know have damaged confidence in this wonderful police force.”
But she said the force “has turned its full attention to restoring public confidence,” adding that it was “very optimistic about the future of London and London police”.
Khan said earlier this month that he was “completely disgusted” after an independent watchdog reported that London police had exchanged “shocking” racist, sexist and homophobic messages.
