A police officer known for his role on Channel 4’s *Hunted* has been suspended following allegations of making sexist remarks to female colleagues. Temporary Inspector Shazad Sadiq, currently with Durham Constabulary, faces accusations that could lead to charges of gross misconduct.
The suspension occurred in February 2025, and an investigation by the force’s Professional Standards Department is still ongoing ten months later. During this period, Sgt Sadiq has remained on full pay while the inquiry continues. The allegations include comments made to three female Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) regarding their potential use of **OnlyFans**, a platform where users can create and sell adult content. The women claim that they were unfairly singled out, while their male counterparts were not subjected to the same scrutiny.
In addition to these remarks, Sgt Sadiq is accused of making an inappropriate comment to a female police constable, suggesting that she could not “hide her sexuality,” accompanied by gestures that were deemed unprofessional. Another troubling incident involved the allocation of the same officer to a case involving a woman who frequently went missing and was described as “struggling with her sexuality.” Sgt Sadiq reportedly stated that the officer could relate to the woman due to her own sexual orientation and suggested that she act as a “motherly figure.”
Further allegations suggest that he denied this officer the opportunity to enroll in a Taser training course, citing that her “hormones needed to settle” after returning from parental leave. Sgt Sadiq has firmly denied all allegations made against him.
Having served as a police officer for over 28 years, Sgt Sadiq previously worked for the Metropolitan Police in London before joining Durham Constabulary in 2001. His career includes roles such as general secretary of the National Black Police Association and chairman of the Durham Ethnic Minority Support Association. Since 2021, he has appeared as a hunter on *Hunted*, a reality show that features police and intelligence personnel tracking down contestants who are attempting to evade capture for 21 days for a chance to win a share of £100,000.
A spokesperson for Durham Constabulary confirmed the suspension, stating, “In February, a sergeant was suspended pending an investigation into allegations surrounding potential breaches of standards of behaviour. That investigation remains ongoing.” Channel 4 has opted not to comment on the situation at this time.
The outcome of the investigation will determine the next steps for Sgt Sadiq and whether further actions will be taken against him. As the case continues to unfold, it raises significant questions about workplace conduct and the treatment of female officers within law enforcement.
