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Mukund Krishna, the former chief executive of the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW), has expressed his determination to clear his name following his recent arrest on suspicion of corruption. In a statement to the media, Krishna asserted his pride in his tenure at the organisation, despite facing serious allegations of financial misconduct.
Allegations and Arrest
Krishna’s legal troubles began when he was apprehended at his home in Surrey by officers from the City of London police as part of a broader investigation into claims of financial impropriety within the PFEW. The allegations reportedly centre around governance issues and financial decision-making processes affecting the federation, which provides representation for approximately 145,000 police officers across England and Wales.
In an exclusive interview, Krishna firmly denied the accusations. “At all times, I have acted with integrity, in accordance with the rules and governance of the organisation,” he stated. He insisted that he will contest the allegations vigorously, expressing confidence that he would eventually be “entirely exonerated”.
Achievements During Tenure
Reflecting on his time at the helm of the PFEW, Krishna highlighted several significant accomplishments that he believes have positively impacted the lives of police officers. Under his leadership, the federation achieved a 16% pay rise for frontline officers over three years and successfully secured more than £150 million in compensation for its members. Additionally, he reported a substantial reduction in litigation liabilities, which fell from over £110 million to less than £40 million, thereby stabilising the organisation’s finances.
“I am proud of everything that we accomplished,” Krishna noted, emphasising the importance of the federation’s work for its members.
Employment Termination and Further Investigations
As a consequence of the ongoing investigation, Krishna’s employment with the PFEW was officially terminated on May 31, 2026. A spokesperson for the federation confirmed that he will not receive any further remuneration following the end of his contract. Krishna’s salary package, which was valued at £701,100 for both 2024 and 2025, included a base salary of £342,000, alongside a retention bonus and pension contributions.
The inquiry has also led to the arrest of two former senior officials within the federation, both of whom are being investigated for similar allegations of fraud by abuse of position. This coordinated operation underscores the serious nature of the claims being examined by the authorities.
Wider Implications for the Police Federation
The circumstances surrounding Krishna’s arrest and the subsequent investigation raise significant concerns about governance standards within the Police Federation of England and Wales. The federation, which plays a crucial role in advocating for police officers, now faces scrutiny that may undermine public trust.
Rick Prior, a former chair of the Metropolitan Police Federation, was previously suspended after expressing concerns regarding racial profiling, while Richard Cooke, another federation official, was removed for disputing claims of institutional racism. These incidents point to a turbulent period for the federation, as it grapples with both internal and external challenges.
Why it Matters
The allegations against Mukund Krishna not only pose a serious threat to his personal reputation but also cast a long shadow over the integrity of the Police Federation of England and Wales. As the investigation unfolds, the implications for governance, accountability, and public trust in police representation are profound. The outcomes of this case could influence how police organisations operate and relate to their communities, highlighting the necessity for transparency and ethical conduct in public service.
