London (Parliament Politics Magazine) – A BBC Panorama undercover investigation has revealed a deeply troubling culture of misogyny, racism, anti-Muslim sentiment, and excessive use of force among Metropolitan Police officers at Charing Cross police station. Nine officers have been suspended amid gross misconduct investigations, with senior officials pledging swift disciplinary action and systemic reforms.
Secret undercover filming from the BBC Panorama programme exposes serious misconduct within the Metropolitan Police
The BBC Panorama investigation, broadcast on 1 October 2025, has uncovered shocking evidence of racist, misogynistic, and violent behaviours among officers in London‘s Metropolitan Police, specifically those stationed at Charing Cross. As reported by BBC News, serving officers were captured on secret camera making derogatory, sexualised comments about colleagues, expressing racist attitudes towards immigrants and Muslims, and boasting about the use of excessive force on detainees.
This evidence starkly contradicts previous assurances from the Met that toxic behaviours had been tackled following high-profile cases like the murder of Sarah Everard by a serving officer. The undercover footage also reveals officers making disturbing calls for immigrants to be shot, further exposing the depth of the problem inside the force.
Officers Suspended and Investigations Launched
As reported by Robert Mendick of Sky News, Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley responded swiftly to the Panorama revelations, describing the behaviour as “reprehensible and completely unacceptable.” Within 48 hours, nine officers tied to the investigation were suspended, with the possibility of dismissal fast-tracked in cases where incontrovertible evidence exists.
The suspensions follow lengthy investigations by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which is probing allegations encompassing excessive force, racist and misogynistic language, and potential perverting of the course of justice by a police constable, among others. In total, the IOPC is investigating 11 individuals including nine officers, a former officer, and a designated detention officer.
Systemic Failings and Leadership Changes
In an official statement reacting to the Panorama broadcast, Sir Mark Rowley acknowledged systemic, cultural, and regulatory failings that had allowed such behaviours to persist within the Met. Candid about the scope of the problem, he stated, “We are part way into conducting what is already the biggest corruption clear-out in British policing history.”
The Met has disbanded the custody team at Charing Cross and made significant changes to local leadership as part of immediate measures to address the issues uncovered. Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist confirmed that wide-ranging leadership reviews and professional standards examinations are underway to prevent future abuses.
Specific Allegations and Historical Context
As reported by the BBC and the IOPC, the activities under investigation occurred between August 2024 and January 2025 within Charing Cross police station. The ranks involved range from police constables to sergeants. Allegations include participation in a homophobic, racist, and misogynistic WhatsApp group, failure to report inappropriate conduct, and boasts about violent arrests.
This is not the first time Charing Cross has been under scrutiny. The IOPC previously uncovered “disgraceful” conduct at the same station in 2022, indicating persistent issues despite prior warnings and investigations.
Impact on Public Trust
Sir Mark Rowley expressed deep regret for the breach of trust and damage to community confidence, stating, “Officers behaving in such appalling, criminal ways let down our communities and will cause some to question if their sons and daughters are safe in our cells, and whether they would be believed and respected as victims of crime.”
The commissioner assured the public of swift accountability, stating those found involved in racism, misogyny, or boasting about violence would face expedited disciplinary hearings leading potentially to their dismissal.
Independent Oversight and Evidence Gathering
Amanda Rowe, Director of the IOPC, highlighted the complexity of the ongoing investigation. She noted the accumulation of extensive CCTV footage and said the office had reached out to both current and former Met Police staff linked to Charing Cross for information on potential conduct issues.
Ms Rowe also said investigators are identifying and contacting members of the public who may be involved or have relevant evidence. The IOPC is working hard to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation despite the challenging volume of material.
Met Police Commits to Reform and Transparency
The Met Police statement affirmed a zero-tolerance approach to misogyny, racism, and violence within its ranks and committed to working with the IOPC to fast-track hearings and enforce discipline. Changes to the custody leadership and wider reviews of detention teams have already been implemented.
Broader Context of Policing and Public Safety
This exposure of entrenched discriminatory and extremist behaviour within one of the world’s largest police forces has sparked wider debate about policing culture in the UK. Critics argue these systemic problems highlight the urgent need for transparent oversight, better recruitment, and improved training on equality and ethics in law enforcement.