Two MPS officers arrested after 'inappropriate' photographs taken at scene of double murder

Nicole Smallman, 27, and Bibaa Henry, 46, were stabbed to death in Fryent Country Park off Slough Lane in Wembley, northwest London during the early hours of June 6 after meeting to celebrate Ms Henry’s birthday.

The MPS’s Directorate of Professional Standards was informed of allegations that non-official and inappropriate photographs had been taken at the crime scene on June 17 and made a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

The two officers were arrested on Monday (June 22) by the IOPC on suspicion of misconduct in a public office. They have since been bailed to return pending further inquiries. Both officers – who are based on the North East Command – have been suspended from duty.

Commander Paul Brogden said: “I am horrified and disgusted by the nature of these allegations; a sentiment which will be shared by colleagues throughout the organisation. If true, these actions are morally reprehensible and anyone involved will be robustly dealt with. I am limited in terms of being able to comment further about the matter at this time in order not to compromise the IOPC investigation.

“Senior representatives from the MPS and the IOPC visited the parents of Bibaa and Nicole to inform them of these serious allegations and confirm that it is now subject to an independent investigation with full cooperation from the MPS. This deeply disturbing information will no doubt have created additional trauma for a family who are already grieving the devastating loss of two loved ones. I can only start to imagine the impact of this; and I’d like to sincerely apologise to them for this further burden.

“I know that the wider community will share our shock and repulsion at these allegations and whilst our focus remains with Bibaa and Nicole’s family we are also listening to the concerns our communities and key stakeholders will want to raise about these allegations.”