A close protection officer has been arrested and suspended over alleged bets about the timing of the general election.

He is a member of the Met’s Royalty and Specialist Protection Command, which provides personal close protection to ministerial VIPs and members of the Royal Family.

The Gambling Commission informed the Met Police last week that they were investigating the activity by the police constable.

The matter was immediately referred to officers in the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards who opened an investigation, and the officer was also removed from operational duties.

The officer was arrested on Monday on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was taken into custody and bailed pending further inquiries.

The matter has also been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

The Gambling Commission continues to lead the investigation into the alleged betting offences.

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