Data watchdog teams raid homes and seize computers amid Matt Hancock affair probe
Teams from the UK’s data watchdog have seized computers after raiding two homes as part of their probe into the leaked CCTV footage of Matt Hancock’s affair.
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) searched two addresses in the south of England earlier today, taking personal computer equipment and other electronic devices with them.
“In these circumstances, the ICO aims to react swiftly and effectively to investigate where there is a risk that other people may have unlawfully obtained personal data,” ICO director of investigations Steve Eckersley said.
“We have an ongoing investigation and will not be commenting further until it is concluded.”
It follows a complaint from electrical construction group EMCOR, which operates the CCTV for the Department of Health and Social Care.
The group said that the CCTV footage, that showed the disgraced former health secretary kissing a departmental aide, were taken from the department’s system without consent.
CCTV images and footage of Hancock embracing his aide Gina Coladangelo were later published by The Sun newspaper on 25 June.
The former health secretary resigned following the scandal, after admitting he breached the Covid rules he had urged the public to follow.