THE CHIEF CONSTABLE of West Yorkshire, Mark Gilmore, has been suspended over a PSNI investigation into the awarding of PSNI vehicle contracts.

The Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson, said:

“I would like to stress that the suspension of the Chief Constable is a necessity in the public interest until the full facts have been established.

I sincerely hope that the PSNI investigation is concluded quickly in a way that could allow me to lift the suspension and Mr Gilmore to return to his post and continue the vital work to ensure communities are safer and feel safer.

Gilmore has not been arrested but was told to step down temporarily.

Six men were arrested as part of the investigation on Tuesday.

Two men were arrested in England and were brought to Northern Ireland for questioning, while four men were arrested in Antrim, Down and Tyrone.

The suspects were arrested by the Serious Crime Branch on suspicion of a range of offences including bribery, misconduct in public office and procuring misconduct in public office.

Read: Police officer among six men arrested over awarding of PSNI vehicle contracts>