According to a press release from the Independent Police Complaints Authority (DUP), six police officers were arrested early Tuesday morning at various addresses in Copenhagen and the surrounding area. They were charged with aggravated theft and possession and sale of intoxicants, in what the statement described as a coordinated operation. The police also stated that the Copenhagen police themselves had reported the officers to the DUP based on reasonable suspicion.
The detainees are police officers in the emergency department of the Copenhagen police, aged between 26 and 34. Investigations prior to the arrests suggest that the detained officers cooperated within a closed group. They were released after being charged and searched, and were sent home pending further investigations by the DUP into the case.
Chief Inspector Søren Thomassen stated in a press release: “We are deeply shocked by the arrest of six Copenhagen police officers today and their indictment for serious criminal offenses committed while on duty. The officers involved come from several different departments within the police force, but primarily from the emergency unit.” He added, according to TV2: “But the charges brought today are extremely serious, and that is clearly what shakes us. It is a shame that such a small number can destroy the trust that so many have worked so hard to build.” He also stated that he does not know how the six officers know each other but expects the investigation to reveal this. Thomassen acknowledged, according to TV2, that this case could weaken public trust in the police: “Public trust in the police is of paramount importance, and a case like this undermines that trust. It is extremely serious. We are talking about a small number of officers who – according to the charges against them – broke the law and failed in their responsibilities as police officers. This is also why we informed the DUP (Directorate of Police) about the connection when we became aware of the suspicion.”.
