UK Police launch criminal probe into DC envoy leaks on Trump – TheNigerialawyer

British police said Friday it had launched a “criminal
investigation” into the leak of British diplomatic cables critical
of US President Donald Trump that led to the resignation of the UK
ambassador to Washington.

London’s Metropolitan Police said its terrorism command, which
investigates potential breaches of Britain’s Official Secrets Act,
had initiated the probe into the leaking of Kim Darroch’s
correspondence.

“I am satisfied that there has been damage caused to UK
international relations, and there would be clear public interest
in bringing the person or people responsible to justice,” Assistant
Commissioner Neil Basu said in a statement announcing the move.

Last weekend’s disclosure of Darroch’s private messages back to
London — which included describing the Trump administration as
“inept” and “uniquely dysfunctional” — triggered waves of angry
tweets from the US president.

After Trump said he would no longer work with Darroch, and he
was disinvited from several events, the British ambassador resigned
on Wednesday.

On Friday, the American president said that Britain needed to
stop their “leaking problems”.

The British government had opened its own inquiry into the leaks
this week and noted it had involved the police to ascertain whether
any documents protected by the Official Secrets Act had been
shared.

Basu said that the leaks may be a “criminal matter” as he urged
the culprit to “turn yourself in at the earliest opportunity,
explain yourself and face the consequences”.

“Also, to anyone who knows or suspects those responsible, or who
has any information, please come forward,” he added.

(AFP)

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