Full Breakdown
NHS Tayside Faces Police Complaint Over Destroyed Evidence in Eljamel Inquiry
12/23/2025, 10:57:33 AM
Overview of the Incident
Jules Rose, a victim of disgraced neurosurgeon Dr. Sam Eljamel, has lodged a police complaint against NHS Tayside following the destruction of 40 theatre logbooks linked to Eljamel's operations. These records were shredded despite a formal "do not destroy" notice issued to safeguard evidence for an ongoing public inquiry into Eljamel's conduct. The inquiry, led by a judge, is examining allegations that Eljamel performed life-altering "botched" surgeries, affecting numerous patients, some of whom are now paralyzed and require 24/7 care.
Background on Dr. Sam Eljamel
Dr. Sam Eljamel served as the head of neurosurgery at NHS Tayside in Dundee from 1995 until his suspension in 2013, following a series of allegations regarding his surgical practices. He is currently believed to be practicing in Libya. The inquiry into his actions has prompted Police Scotland to investigate approximately 200 complaints from patients who claim to have suffered due to his procedures.
Destruction of Evidence
The destruction of the theatre logbooks occurred in July 2023, shortly before Police Scotland sought access to these records as part of their investigation. NHS Tayside has stated that the staff responsible for shredding the documents were unaware of their connection to Eljamel and the ongoing inquiry. The health board has expressed regret over the incident, describing it as an error, and has initiated an internal investigation.
Victims' Response and Criticism
Jules Rose, who underwent a procedure in which her tear duct was mistakenly removed instead of a brain tumor, is leading the charge against NHS Tayside. Alongside fellow victim Pat Kelly, Rose has submitted a complaint to police, emphasizing the need for accountability and expressing concerns about the culture within NHS Tayside. Rose stated, “This so-called ‘systematic failure’ exposes a deeper problem,” indicating a belief that the organization has not adequately addressed past issues.
Official Statements & Responses
NHS Tayside has acknowledged the error and has commissioned an independent external review of its systems and governance. A spokesperson for the health board stated that they "deeply regret this error" and confirmed that the destroyed logbooks were part of a request made by police. Detective Superintendent Carron McKellar noted that significant resources are being dedicated to the inquiry, which is described as complex and protracted.
What's Next
The police investigation continues as victims and campaigners push for greater scrutiny of NHS Tayside's actions. Jules Rose plans to present her dossier to detectives, aiming to ensure that the destruction of evidence does not go unpunished and that the inquiry into Dr. Eljamel's practices remains thorough and transparent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “the materials destroyed were capable of identifying witnesses, corroborating criminal conduct and testing the integrity of patient records” — Jules Rose, Campaigner
