A LANCASHIRE police officer arrested in India on suspicion of drug smuggling is to face a criminal investigation by his own force.

Lancashire Constabulary has launched a probe into Shabir Mubarak's activities in the United Kingdom - but it is refusing to comment further on the extent of the investigation.

The force is also supporting the Indian authorities in their investigation of the alleged offence, and is working closely with Customs and Excise and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

PC Mubarak, who served in Blackburn as a special constable, was arrested in Bombay with four other men after they were allegedly found with a box containing 5kgs of heroin.

The police officer, who now lives in Lostock Hall and is based at Bamber Bridge, has been remanded in custody until Monday when he will appear in court in Bombay, along with the other men arrested.

PC Mubarak, who has an Indian passport, is currently on sick leave from Lancashire Police.

A spokesman said he was receiving a limited allowance but was not being paid.

The spokesman added that PC Mubarak's entry into the force met the requirements laid down in Home Office guidelines and that his status would be taken into consideration as part of their investigation, with the appropriate recommendations being made to the Chief Constable.

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