Senior UK officer nabbed for secrecy breach

One of the most senior British police officers has been arrested in connection with the phone-hacking scandal, over allegations that he passed information to the News International journalists.

The police said the arrest of borough commander in Ealing, west London, Chief Superintendent Andy Rowell is not over an information-for-money case.

“[His arrest] relates to the suspected release of confidential information but not alleged payment,” the Metropolitan police said.
The Met added Rowell has been suspended for misconduct in office.

His arrest as part of Operation Elveden and the emphasis that he has not received money in exchange for information has raised questions as the operation investigates “inappropriate payments” to police officer and other government officials.

The operation has so far led to 61 arrests including two other senior officers, who were also said to have received no money.

The police said Rowell has been bailed until hearings into his case in March.

The phone hacking scandal that rocked News International and closed down its 167-year-old tabloid the News of the World has led to several investigations in Britain including the Leveson Inquiry into media conduct and an internal inquiry by New International’s parent company News Corporation.

The police said the information leading to Rowell’s arrest was handed to them by News Corp.