LONDON - Two Metropolitan Police officers have been arrested after allegedly sharing ‘inappropriate’ photographs taken at a double murder scene. Nicole Smallman, 27, and Bibaa Henry, 46, were found stabbed to death at Fryent Country Park, off Slough Lane, in Wembley, north-west London. Detectives believe the sisters were killed by a stranger in the early hours of June 6 after meeting friends the previous evening to celebrate Ms Henry’s birthday. Scotland Yard said its directorate of professional standards was informed last week about allegations that ‘non-official and inappropriate photographs’ had been taken at the crime scene.
The police watchdog said the pictures were allegedly ‘shared with a small number of others’, adding that the Met was ‘handling matters involving those members of the public who may have received those images’. 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.’
The sisters’ family previously told of the ‘devastating impact’ of their loss after their loved ones’ bodies were found next to each other shortly after 1pm on June 7. Mr Brogdan said investigators have told them of the allegations, adding: ‘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.’ The two police officers, who are based on the Met’s North East Command, have been bailed pending further enquiries.(FA)