Met Police Officer Dismissed for Leaking Sensitive Information to Algerian Embassy

On May 29, 2024, the Metropolitan Police dismissed PC Saadane Mansouri after a gross misconduct hearing concluded that he had leaked sensitive information to the Algerian Embassy in London. The breaches occurred between March 2019 and December 2020.

Mansouri, who was attached to the Specialist Operations department, had regular, unrecorded contact with embassy staff using his personal phone. He shared details from police systems, including information about protests.

In 2019, Mansouri accessed police records related to a neighbor without having any involvement in the investigation. These actions were found to breach the standards of professional behavior concerning confidentiality, orders and instructions, duties and responsibilities, and integrity.

The matters came to light in March 2020, leading to Mansouri's suspension from duty. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched an investigation, which culminated in the hearing on May 29, 2024.

This incident highlights the importance of maintaining confidentiality and integrity within law enforcement agencies, as breaches can compromise national security and public trust. The consequences of such actions can lead to erosion of faith in institutions and potentially harm individuals or communities.

Commander Katie Lilburn, head of the Met's Directorate of Professional Standards, emphasized the importance of integrity within the police force. "Everyone who works in our organisation knows that police systems must only be used when there is a legitimate reason for doing so and this officer's behaviour was completely unacceptable," she said. "Honesty and integrity are at the heart of everything we do and we will identify and hold to account those who do not meet these values."

The investigation revealed that Mansouri's contact with the Algerian Embassy was often not recorded and conducted from his personal phone. This lack of protocol adherence further highlighted the seriousness of his misconduct.

Mansouri's dismissal highlights the critical need for maintaining confidentiality and integrity within the police force. The Met Police reiterated their commitment to upholding these values and taking action against those who fail to adhere to them.

This incident underscores the importance of strict adherence to professional standards and the potential consequences of failing to do so.

Key Takeaways

• PC Saadane Mansouri dismissed from Met Police for leaking sensitive info to Algerian Embassy.
• Breaches occurred between March 2019 and December 2020, including accessing neighbor's records.
• Mansouri used personal phone for unrecorded contact with embassy staff, breaching confidentiality.
• Investigation by IOPC led to gross misconduct hearing and dismissal on May 29, 2024.
• Incident highlights importance of maintaining confidentiality and integrity within law enforcement.