Rishi Sunak's bodyguard arrested for alleged betting on election date

One of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's police bodyguards was arrested for alleged misconduct related to bets placed on the date of Britain's national election before its official announcement, authorities revealed on Wednesday. The arrest occurred after the Gambling Commission alerted the police.

The Metropolitan Police stated that the constable from the Royalty and Specialist Protection Command was apprehended on Monday. The commission, which oversees the gambling industry, is investigating potential offences linked to the election date. Prime Minister Sunak had disclosed on May 22 that the parliamentary election would take place on July 4, a date that few in Sunak's Conservative Party had anticipated. Many expected the polls to be held in the autumn.

Betting holds significant popularity in the UK, with bookmakers accepting wagers on diverse outcomes, from sports events to election results and literary prize winners. Utilizing inside information for betting constitutes a criminal offence. The police officer in question was released on bail as further inquiries continue and has been suspended from duty. As per British protocols, the officer's identity remains undisclosed unless charges are filed.

Last week, Craig Williams, a Sunak aide aiming for re-election to Parliament, admitted he was under investigation by the Gambling Commission. He acknowledged placing a £100 bet on a July election before the date had been announced.

"Some routine inquiries" are being conducted by the regulator, Williams confirmed, expressing his willingness to fully cooperate. He added, "I don't want to be a distraction from the campaign, I should have thought through how it looked."

(With agency inputs)