More than 20 officers tasked with protecting the Royal Family have been placed on restricted duties after allegations that some fell asleep at Windsor Castle and left their posts unattended, London police said.
A total of 23 officers from the Royalty and Specialist Protection command have been issued misconduct notices, with 21 currently on restricted duties, following what the force described as an urgent investigation launched last month, according to the Metropolitan Police Service.
“The alleged behaviour falls below the high standards expected of officers, particularly in frontline protective roles,” a spokesperson for the force said.
The allegations emerged after reporting by The Sun, which claimed officers were seen leaving posts unattended at Windsor Castle, one of the official residences of King Charles, as well as sleeping while on duty.
The unit involved is responsible for protecting members of the Royal Family and securing royal residences.
The two officers not placed on restricted duties will not be deployed to royal sites while the investigation continues, the statement added, with inquiries also extended to other royal residences.
Windsor Castle, located west of London and regularly used for both private stays and state occasions, has hosted high-profile guests, including former U.S. President Donald Trump during a visit last year.
