An internal investigation has rocked the British royal family's security detail following allegations that several officers fell asleep while on duty at Windsor Castle. A total of 23 officers are now facing disciplinary proceedings for alleged breaches of duty.
The Metropolitan Police announced that 21 of these officers have been placed on restricted duties pending the outcome of the investigation. The two other officers involved will no longer be deployed to royal residences for the duration of the investigation.
According to authorities, the investigation was launched urgently last month following allegations of conduct deemed incompatible with the responsibilities of this specialized unit. The officers in question belong to the command responsible for the protection of the royal family and VIPs.
The affair broke following revelations by the British newspaper. The Sunwho claimed that some police officers had left their posts unattended at Windsor Castle and had fallen asleep while on duty. The site is one of the King's main residences.
In a statement, a police spokesperson said the alleged misconduct fell "below the high standards" expected of officers, particularly those in frontline protection roles. Authorities indicated they were taking the allegations very seriously.
The police officers involved are responsible for the security of members of the royal family and the surveillance of official residences. Checks are now being carried out not only at Windsor, but also at other royal properties to determine if similar incidents may have occurred elsewhere.
Windsor Castle, located west of London, regularly hosts official events and private stays for the royal family. Buckingham Palace declined to comment on the incident, which comes at a time of heightened security concerns at royal residences in the UK.
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