British police announced on Thursday an investigation into alleged fraudulent bets placed on the general election date that have sparked controversy within the Conservative Party’s campaign.
London’s Metropolitan Police stated in a press release that some of these wagers could represent “misconduct in public office,” extending beyond breaking gambling rules. The police did not specify whether elected officials or political figures were targeted by their inquiries.
The UK's Gambling Commission has suspected for several weeks that some individuals, due to their proximity to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, had exploited insider information to bet on the election date.
The commission has examined numerous cases, with a small number requiring an expanded criminal investigation by police, Metropolitan Police investigator Katherine Goodwin was quoted as saying in the press release.
After prolongued deliberations, which were criticised by the opposition, two suspected Conservative candidates have lost the party’s support for upcoming elections on 4 July. One of them admitted to a “lapse in judgement” without acknowledging possession of confidential information.
Sunak was questioned about the scandal again on Wednesday evening during his final televised debate with his Labour Party adversary, Keir Starmer. He reiterated that the accusations had infuriated him.
The police also reported that seven police officers are under investigation by the Gambling Commission. One was arrested on June 17 and later released on bail pending investigation.
