Ch Insp Andy George, President of the National Black Police Association (NBPA), is under investigation by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) over a tweet addressing racial disparities in police misconduct cases. George, a former firearms officer, described the decision as a “chilling message” that suppresses free speech and discourages Black officers from speaking out.
The Controversial Tweet and Its Context
The investigation follows George’s response to the acquittal and subsequent promotion of Metropolitan Police officer Martyn Blake, who was cleared of murder after fatally shooting unarmed man Chris Kaba. Despite the police watchdog’s recommendation that Blake face a gross misconduct hearing, he was promoted from sergeant to inspector.
In November 2024, George retweeted a MailOnline article about Blake’s promotion, commenting:
“Regardless of your feelings on the case, this will come as a slap in the face to the disproportionate number of Black officers under investigation for misconduct and being held back in their own careers! No doubt an impact on Black Londoners as well.”
The tweet highlighted concerns about racial disparities in police disciplinary actions, a long-standing issue in UK policing.
George Criticizes Investigation as an Attack on Free Speech
George, a vocal critic of policing’s racial inequalities, condemned the PSNI’s decision to investigate him.
“It is deeply concerning that I am facing misconduct proceedings simply for speaking out on issues that directly impact Black officers and communities,” he stated.
He added that the move stifles free speech, weakens his ability to represent NBPA members, and reinforces the inequalities he has been working to address.
“Policing must be open to scrutiny, not silence those who seek positive change,” he urged.
PSNI Investigation and Complaint Details
The PSNI initiated the misconduct probe after a complaint alleged that George’s tweet stirred up racial division, lacked factual basis, and was biased. The complainant stated:
“It is likely to stir up hate, division, and acrimony among officers… It is high time this man was removed from policing.”
PSNI confirmed that the investigation was launched following a referral from the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland, but declined to comment further.
Broader Implications and Debate Over Police Protections
The case comes amid a wider debate about police accountability and protections. Blake’s acquittal in just three hours has led to renewed calls for greater legal protections for officers who use force. A government review is expected to introduce measures to limit prosecutions against police officers, a move critics argue could amount to state immunity.
Meanwhile, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is still considering whether to pursue Blake for gross misconduct, despite opposition from some within the police force who believe the case against him was weak.
The investigation into George has sparked fresh concerns over racial bias in police disciplinary actions, raising questions about the freedom of officers to speak out on issues of race and justice.
