US diplomat removed from UK after child image raid

US authorities removed an American diplomat from the United Kingdom after a dawn raid on his London flat in connection with an investigation into indecent images of children, according to multiple reports. The operation on August 25, 2026, has raised questions about whether British law enforcement was bypassed. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that US authorities informed them on August 25 of an investigation into suspected offences in London relating to indecent images of children. The force said it continues to liaise with its American counterparts. However, reports indicate the diplomat was seized from his home in Putney and transported to a US military facility before being flown out of the country. Flight records show a US-linked cargo aircraft, a Kalitta Air Boeing 747, traveled from Chicago to RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire on August 24. The same aircraft departed Fairford the following day, arriving at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. The operation is reported to have involved Marine Security Guards from the US Embassy. The US Embassy stated it is aware of allegations concerning an individual assigned to the Embassy and takes them seriously.