Michael Lockwood, the director general of the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), has resigned with immediate effect amid a secret historical investigation. The announcement came on Friday, citing “personal and domestic reasons” for his sudden departure.
However, suspicion grew after Home Secretary Suella Braverman disclosed that she had taken action following an investigation into a historical allegation against Lockwood. Ms Braverman stated that Lockwood was given a clear choice: to resign or face suspension. His resignation was accepted without delay, though no details about the nature of the allegation have been released.
The Home Office is now working swiftly to establish temporary leadership at the IOPC as the situation develops. The watchdog is responsible for investigating the most serious police misconduct cases across England and Wales.
Lockwood was the first-ever director general of the IOPC, which replaced the Independent Police Complaints Commission in 2018. He described his resignation as a “great sadness” and expressed that it had been a huge honour to lead the organisation.
Before his role at the IOPC, Lockwood served as chief executive at Harrow Council and played a key role in the government’s recovery efforts following the 2017 Grenfell Tower tragedy. He worked closely with bereaved families and survivors during that time. Lockwood is a qualified accountant with experience at the National Audit Office and the Local Government Association, specialising in finance and policy.
Originally published by UKNIP.
