UPDATE: Female police officers in London are battling a surge of harassment and abuse during late-night patrols, as confirmed by Natasha Evans, Superintendent for Westminster. Just last night, on December 29, 2025, two female officers faced sexual aggression and derogatory comments while patrolling the bustling streets of Soho.
With the holiday season in full swing, the streets of Central London were packed, and the atmosphere turned volatile. Officers reported a relentless barrage of inappropriate remarks, such as “Nice handcuffs, I know what I could do with those.” This alarming trend highlights the challenges that female officers endure while maintaining law and order.
Recent data reveals that 18% of Superintendent Evans’s team is female, undershooting the target of 25% set for February. The pressing concern is the widespread disrespect towards these officers, who symbolize authority but often become targets of misogyny. “The women on my team say it just feels relentless,” Evans explained.
The situation escalated further in September when Mark Weatherley, 43, was sentenced to eight years in prison for violently attacking two female officers. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the physical dangers these women face. “The level of hatred and violence directed towards the officers was deeply shocking,” stated Detective Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry.
Moreover, in a recent case, Declan Diedrick, 29, was convicted for stabbing a female officer in the face, an act described as reminiscent of a horror film. These incidents underscore the urgent need for change within the Metropolitan Police and society at large.
While the streets of Soho might appear vibrant, the reality for officers like PC Mansoor and PC Hennessy-Jones is fraught with tension. On their shift from 9 PM to 7 AM, they encounter everything from drunken revelers to serious violent incidents. “It would be wrong to say that we don’t feel frightened,” PC Hennessy-Jones admitted, emphasizing their commitment despite the risks.
The officers are not just dealing with verbal harassment; they face potential violence at any moment. During their patrol, they were called to a scene where a woman reported being held against her will. They quickly took charge, highlighting their resolve to protect the public, even as they navigate a hostile environment.
In a chilling contrast, internal issues within the police force also come to light. Following a 2022 investigation into sexist group chats among male officers, the Metropolitan Police faced backlash for its culture. Baroness Casey’s review labeled the force as “institutionally sexist,” following the tragic murder of Sarah Everard by a serving officer.
As the night unfolded, the officers continued their work, providing assistance to vulnerable individuals while also facing relentless abuse. “They think of you as an object,” PC Mansoor said, reflecting on the degrading comments they receive.
By 1:30 AM, the atmosphere shifted as reports of a female in distress came through their radios. Despite their own exhaustion, the officers remained focused on their duty, ready to respond to every emergency call.
The courage displayed by these women is commendable. They stand at the frontline, risking their safety to ensure the public’s well-being during the chaotic nightlife of London. As they navigate a landscape riddled with both external and internal misogyny, the urgent need for societal change is clearer than ever.
In a world where their authority is challenged, these female officers continue to fight for respect and safety, embodying resilience in the face of adversity. Their story is not just about policing; it’s about the ongoing battle against misogyny in all its forms.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the Metropolitan Police continues to address these critical issues.
