Britain’s largest police force is facing mounting criticism over its social media strategy after posting arrest footage styled to mimic the video game Grand Theft Auto (GTA).
The Metropolitan Police’s official TikTok account, which has amassed over 175,000 followers, recently sparked controversy with a February 20 video showing a shoplifting suspect’s arrest. The clip featured distinctive fonts and visual effects reminiscent of the popular gaming franchise GTA, complete with the corresponding hashtag.
Critics have accused the force of “wasting time and money” on social media content instead of focusing on crime prevention. The Met’s TikTok feed regularly features serving officers in various scenarios, from explaining arrest procedures to participating in viral trends. One video, which garnered more than 476,000 views, shows an officer taking part in the ‘ring trend,’ revealing police car keys instead of a wedding ring.
“Dude go arrest some criminals instead of making TikToks,” reads the top comment on one of their posts. Another controversial video features officers pursuing a suspect on a bicycle, set to comedic music with the caption “Benny-Hill style chase.”
Retired Met officer Dominic expressed his disapproval to MailOnline, stating: “These videos are embarrassing, it’s just ridiculous. Old-fashioned policing methods, like going and talking to young people, are still the best method of fighting crime amongst youth.”
The decision to reference GTA, a game known for its portrayal of law enforcement, has particularly drawn public ire. “Ain’t no goddamn way the police posted this,” one TikTok user commented, while others suggested the content “made a farce” of the force.
However, the Metropolitan Police stands by its social media approach. A spokesman defended the strategy, telling MailOnline: “We are reaching millions of young people on TikTok – showing them the amazing work of our officers and offering insights into the world of policing. This adds to traditional methods of engagement rather than replacing them, and will help us to recruit the police officers of the future.”
@metpoliceuk Busted ‼️ Criminal takes a ‘trip’ to the police station #police #london #grandtheftauto #GTA
