Senior officer Dizaei suspended

A senior police officer accused of misconduct has been suspended by the Metropolitan Police Authority (MPA).

Metropolitan Police Commander Ali Dizaei has been suspended by the MPA's professional standards sub-committee, it confirmed.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission approved the decision.

Mr Dizaei has denied any wrongdoing. He is being investigated after he allegedly advised a defence team in a Met prosecution.

The BBC understands Mr Dizaei is also being investigated over a complaint about the way he made an arrest while off-duty in a restaurant.

And allegations over his use of a corporate credit card are also being examined.

"Suspension is not a disciplinary sanction and it is emphasised that suspension should not be taken as a presumption of guilt"
Metropolitan Police Authority

Mr Dizaei will continue to receive full pay until all three inquiries are concluded.

The MPA said: "The committee considered allegations concerning Commander Dizaei and, after lengthy and careful deliberations, unanimously decided to suspend the commander."

It added: "Suspension is not a disciplinary sanction and it is emphasised that suspension should not be taken as a presumption of guilt."

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said in a statement: "IPCC chair Nick Hardwick considered the request and has told the MPA that he has agreed that the suspension should be allowed."

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Mr Dizaei is also the president of the National Black Police Association (NBPA).

Its chairman Alfred John told BBC London 94.9 that the NBPA was "shocked" at Mr Dizaei's suspension.

"We are completely appalled, especially considering that for the past four years there has not been a single complaint against Ali Dizaei," he said.

Speaking on the Today Programme on Friday the former deputy assistant commissioner, Brian Paddick, said allegations of racism did "nothing to promote trust and confidence in the police amongst minority groups".

"I think a lot of people will be thinking twice about joining the police in this current climate," he said.

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