The unexpected find took place in a long-unused locked cabinet at New Scotland Yard, raising questions about the handling of crucial information over the years.
Following the discovery, a meticulous assessment was promptly initiated to ascertain the significance of the documents and any potential impact they may have on the investigation. It has been revealed that certain materials should have been disclosed to the DMIP, which published its final report in June 2021, indicating a failure to adhere to established protocols.
Assistant Commissioner Barbara Gray expressed deep regret and acknowledged the inexcusable nature of the situation. “We fully acknowledge how unacceptable and deeply regrettable this situation is,” Assistant Commissioner Gray stated. “We are working to understand what has taken place and any impact. We apologize to the family of Daniel Morgan and to the Panel.”
The documents in question were initially found in January, and the assessment process began in February. It has been determined that some of the material is directly relevant to the work of the DMIP, and further inspection will be carried out by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
The Metropolitan Police has promptly informed relevant authorities, including HMICFRS, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime, and the Home Office, regarding the discovery. The intention is to maintain transparency and ensure a thorough review of the situation.
In a thorough examination of the documents, the Metropolitan Police has identified a total of 95 pages (consisting of 37 documents) that should have been disclosed according to the agreed protocol with the DMIP. Additionally, an extra 71 pages (comprising 23 documents) that should have been provided to HMICFRS as part of their subsequent inspection were also found.
It should be noted, however, that the assessment conducted by the Metropolitan Police suggests that no evidential documents related to criminal investigations into the murder of Daniel Morgan were included in the discovery. This finding offers some reassurance that the integrity of the ongoing investigation remains intact.
The Metropolitan Police has taken immediate action by reaching out to the family of Daniel Morgan and Baroness Nuala O’Loan, providing an explanation of the situation and outlining the next steps to be taken. To ensure an independent review, the Police Inspectorate has agreed to thoroughly examine the documents and assess the Metropolitan Police’s evaluation in relation to their previous inspection. Furthermore, ongoing discussions with the IOPC are underway to address any concerns and facilitate a comprehensive investigation.
In a demonstration of transparency and accountability, the Metropolitan Police has pledged to make any material that should have been disclosed to the DMIP available to the family of Daniel Morgan and Baroness O’Loan.
This commitment aims to rectify the oversight and provide those affected with the information they are entitled to.
