An investigation will look at whether police helicopters gave false hope of an airborne rescue to people trapped in the burning Grenfell Tower.
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) will also look at whether the downdraft caused by the blades of the helicopters flying close to the building on June 14 fanned the flames and worsened the fire.
It follows a complaint made to the police watchdog by a bereaved individual who lost several family members in the disaster.
The IPCC says its investigation will be linked to the police’s criminal investigation to “ensure a coordinated approach which does not undermine or delay the ongoing Metropolitan Police investigation ”.
Grenfell Tower news
Sarah Green, IPCC deputy chairman, said: “In the months since the horrifying fire at Grenfell Tower , there has rightly been a determination that all aspects of the tragedy should be properly scrutinised in the interests of survivors, the families of those who died and the wider public.
“While there is at present no indication that any police officer may have committed misconduct or a criminal offence, I have decided it is appropriate for this complaint to be investigated.
“The investigation will be undertaken by Metropolitan Police officers, working under the direction and control of the IPCC .
“This approach avoids duplication of work during the wider police investigation into the fire, while ensuring there is independent oversight of this complaint.”
The use of police helicopters is coordinated by the National Police Air Service (NPAS) which is operated on behalf of police forces in England and Wales by West Yorkshire Police.
“Therefore the role of both the MPS and West Yorkshire Police falls within the remit of the complaint,” the IPCC added.
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