Story perspectives

Independent Inquiry Launched into Metropolitan Police Vetting Failures

12/12/2025

50 12

Summary

Story summary

The Home Secretary will launch an independent inquiry into the Metropolitan Police's vetting of recruits amid concerns that hundreds may have joined without checks.
The inquiry will examine 300 officers hired 2016–2023 during a period of rapid recruitment.
Metropolitan Police has acknowledged vetting issues and is revetting recruits from this timeframe.
An October 2022 report cited serious vetting flaws that allowed individuals with criminal backgrounds to join.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Home Secretary will launch an independent inquiry into the Metropolitan Police's vetting of recruits amid concerns that hundreds may have joined without checks.
The inquiry will examine 300 officers hired 2016–2023 during a period of rapid recruitment.
Metropolitan Police has acknowledged vetting issues and is revetting recruits from this timeframe.
An October 2022 report cited serious vetting flaws that allowed individuals with criminal backgrounds to join.