Metropolitan Police Sergeant Dismissed for Discriminatory Conduct Towards Female Officers
A Metropolitan Police sergeant has been dismissed from duty following a misconduct hearing that revealed a pattern of discriminatory language and behavior towards female colleagues. The case underscores ongoing concerns about workplace culture within the UK’s largest police force and the importance of addressing bias and harassment.
A misconduct panel found Sergeant Sevket Gurgur, who served as acting sergeant at Edmonton police station from autumn 2022 to July 2023, engaged in “intentional, deliberate and targeted” misconduct against three female officers. The panel’s decision, announced today, culminates an investigation into allegations of sexism, harassment, and discriminatory remarks.
“Using the Pregnancy Card” and a Hostile Work Environment
The hearing detailed instances where Sergeant Gurgur made demeaning comments to a pregnant officer upon her return from sick leave. According to testimony, he questioned her timing, stating, “oh, now you decide to turn up,” and accused her of “using the pregnancy card again.” The officer, who experienced frequent illness during her pregnancy, was also reportedly called a “diva” when she requested to leave a night shift early to prepare for a midwife appointment.
“His behaviour left her feeling anxious about asking for help,” the panel heard, highlighting the chilling effect of Sergeant Gurgur’s actions on a vulnerable colleague. On one occasion, after granting her request to leave early, he allegedly said she “takes the piss.”
Pattern of Discriminatory Behavior
The misconduct extended beyond the pregnant officer. The panel concluded that Sergeant Gurgur repeatedly made inappropriate comments about her personal life, suggesting she only wanted to go home because her partner was there. Furthermore, he was found to have used discriminatory language towards two other female officers, labeling them as “lazy” and making a deeply offensive remark to one officer, telling her she was “a Muslim woman and should act like one.”
While Sergeant Gurgur admitted to calling one officer “lazy,” he denied the majority of the allegations. However, the panel found all accusations proven, citing a clear pattern of misconduct. They determined he lacked self-awareness and demonstrated a troubling tendency towards temper and disrespectful treatment of others.
Erosion of Public Trust
Commander Jason Prins, chairing the panel, emphasized the severity of the misconduct. “We note that misconduct involving intimidation is serious and can significantly undermine public trust in the profession,” he stated. “This includes cases involving bullying or harassment within the police service. A number of people were subjected to this behaviour by PS Gurgur.”
The panel concluded that dismissal was the only appropriate sanction given the nature and severity of the breaches. Sergeant Gurgur has been dismissed without notice and will be added to the barred list, preventing him from future employment in policing.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing law enforcement agencies in fostering inclusive and respectful workplaces. The Metropolitan Police, already under scrutiny for its internal culture, will likely face renewed calls for comprehensive reforms to address bias and ensure accountability. “.
