Two highly decorated Metropolitan Police officers, PC Mahad Abdalla and PC Richard Wills, have been cleared of misconduct after facing a hearing for using “strong language” during the arrest of a dangerous criminal. The officers, both members of the Metropolitan Police’s Territorial Support Group (TSG), were accused of inappropriate conduct during an incident two years ago but were exonerated in November 2024.
Incident Details:
The controversy began when the two officers stopped a BMW whose occupants were displaying suspicious behaviour commonly associated with gang-related activity. Observing the vehicle, the officers noted that the occupants were:
- Leaning back in their seats to obscure their visibility
- Making frequent glances at the police vehicle
- Driving a BMW, a car sometimes linked to gang activity
When the officers signalled the car to stop, the driver initially complied but then suddenly sped off, prompting a short police pursuit.
The Arrest:
During the subsequent arrest, officers were heard using strong language, including the phrase “Get out of the f*ing car!”** The driver was found to have been defying police orders and putting public safety at risk. He was later charged with multiple criminal offences.
The use of this language prompted a misconduct complaint, leading to a formal investigation and a hearing. The officers defended their actions, arguing that the language was necessary to assert control during a high-stakes situation.
Misconduct Hearing:
The hearing attracted considerable criticism from both within the policing community and the public. Many questioned whether the focus on language rather than the danger posed by the suspect was a misguided priority.
In the end, the panel concluded that the officers’ use of strong language was proportionate given the threat level and circumstances. The panel cleared both officers of misconduct, acknowledging the context of the arrest and their dedication to public safety.
Public and Policing Community Reactions:
Social media erupted with support for the officers, with one X user writing:
“Cops doing their job to keep us safe and they’re dragged through the mud for it? Absolute madness.”
Another post stated:
“These officers were doing their job in a dangerous situation. Let them do what needs to be done to protect the public.”
Even policing experts weighed in. A former senior Met officer said:
“We have to remember the context. In a high-pressure situation with a non-compliant suspect, officers need to be able to use language that asserts authority. We can’t tie their hands.”
A Question of Priorities:
The incident has sparked debate about the treatment of police officers in situations where split-second decisions are required. The focus on language use rather than the criminality of the suspect has led to questions about misplaced priorities in the current policing environment.
A Police Federation spokesperson commented:
“We must support officers who make tough calls in the line of duty. Investigating them for language while they’re dealing with dangerous situations is not helpful.”
Conclusion:
PC Abdalla and PC Wills have returned to duty, reaffirming their commitment to protecting London’s streets. Despite the controversy, the hearing outcome serves as a reassurance to officers that context and safety considerations will be given due weight when assessing their actions.
This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by frontline police in balancing public expectations with the reality of law enforcement in volatile situations.
