A report was made to the force's PSD in July about alleged incidents of discriminatory conduct by a number of officers on a single WhatsApp group - five have now been suspended.

Five officers from Dorset Police have been suspended over allegedly exchanging offensive messages in a WhatsApp group.

An investigation has been launched after a report regarding "alleged incidents of discriminatory conduct by a number of officers" was made to the force's PSD in July.

The nature of the messages has not been revealed at this time.

Dorset Police said a "proactive referral" was made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) at the "earliest opportunity", with the case referred back to the force for local investigation.

A spokesperson for the force said: "Five police officers have been suspended from duty while this investigation is carried out.

"It would be inappropriate to make any further comment at this stage, but is only right that we show openness and transparency with our communities and will provide an update on this matter as soon as we are able to."

Acknowledging that communities will be concerned about allegations of discriminatory behaviour within the ranks, the spokesperson added: "We would like to reassure them that we will do everything possible to ensure the matter is dealt with effectively and in a timely manner."