The pressure on Sir Ian Blair has intensified after it emerged that Scotland Yard was probing allegations that millions of pounds in “expenses” had gone missing.<\/p>\n
The Met’s professional standards watchdog has launched a review of spending on American Express cards issued to staff.<\/p>\n
According to the News of the World, up to \u00a36 million is unaccounted for and anti-corruption officers are preparing to interview hundreds of detectives.<\/p>\n
There are claims that cash has been lavished on luxury watches, flatscreen TVs and holidays.<\/p>\n
A spokesman for the Yard confirmed that two of the force’s detectives had been arrested last month on suspicion of theft in connection to the probe.<\/p>\n
“The Director of Professional Standards is currently conducting a review around the issue and usage of the Met’s American Express cards,” he said. “Any alleged criminality that is uncovered will be dealt with robustly. We have a comprehensive plan to recover any money that is outstanding.”<\/p>\n
The Met spokesman said the detectives were arrested on October 5 and October 8 respectively, and both had been bailed pending further investigation.<\/p>\n
The news comes as the clamour for the Commissioner to step down over the Stockwell tragedy continues to grow.<\/p>\n
An Independent Police Complaints Commission report into the shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes criticised Sir Ian personally last week for holding up its investigation.<\/p>\n
Scotland Yard was also found guilty at the Old Bailey of endangering the public during the botched operation, which saw the innocent Brazilian killed after being mistaken for a would-be suicide bomber.<\/p>\n