In what is being hailed as the largest crackdown on police corruption in British history, over 1,400 officers and staff have been targeted using strategies reminiscent of those that took down notorious US gangster Al Capone.

Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner Matt Jukes revealed that detectives have been employing tactics similar to those used by Chicago police against Al Capone. Just as Al Capone was ultimately apprehended for tax evasion after evading murder charges, the police are taking a comprehensive approach to rooting out misconduct.

Jukes emphasized the need for a holistic view when addressing organized crime and misconduct issues, monitoring various aspects such as officers’ sick leave, grievances, and use of resources to identify individuals of concern. He highlighted that excessive overtime could be a red flag indicating potential problems within the force.

The recent suspension of nine officers from the scandal-ridden Charing Cross police station due to allegations of racism and misogyny underscores the ongoing efforts to address systemic issues within the police force. This purge, triggered by the tragic murder of Sarah Everard by officer Wayne Couzens, marks a significant cleansing process within the Metropolitan Police.

Investigations led by the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards, which served as inspiration for the TV series “Line of Duty,” are scrutinizing officers’ conduct thoroughly. Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley acknowledged the presence of toxic networks within the force that resist change, making this clearout the largest in British history, surpassing previous purges in the 1970s.

As accountability measures intensify, the custody team at Charing Cross police station is being disbanded, and several officers are facing legal repercussions for their handling of a sexual assault case. In response to damning reports about the station’s culture, significant organizational changes have been implemented to prevent the formation of power networks and enhance transparency.

The aftermath of Sarah Everard’s tragic death has prompted a critical review of the Met’s internal operations, shedding light on deep-rooted issues that demand immediate attention and reform.