Five police officers from a force in Kent which murderer Wayne Couzens once worked for are being investigated after “discriminatory” WhatsApp messages were found.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) first received a referral from the Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) in April of the allegations against officers working for them in Dungeness.

They related to a WhatsApp group featuring “inappropriate and discriminatory messages” according to the watchdog.

The CNC is investigating the claims itself amid reports all have been suspended as the probe continues.

An IOPC spokesman said: “In April 2024, we received a mandatory referral from the CNC regarding the conduct of officers involved in a WhatsApp group featuring inappropriate and discriminatory messages.

“We decided that an investigation was required into the officers’ conduct.”

It deemed the matter suitable to be investigated by the force’s Professional Standards Department (PSD), noting one officer was already under investigation for a separate matter.

A PSD is a department within a police force that handles complaints and allegations of misconduct against officers, staff, and special constables.

The spokesman continued: “The force was also reminded that should any further conduct matters be identified, or a complaint is received, then another referral must be made.

“A further conduct referral was received in July involving another CNC officer, relating to inappropriate WhatsApp messages, and we decided this matter was also suitable for investigation by the force’s PSD.”

A CNC spokesman stated: “We have a current investigation which relates to five officers. This investigation relates to conduct using social media which may amount to discreditable conduct.

“The matter was referred to the IOPC who determined that the CNC should investigate and did not take over the investigation.

“The officers, four from Dungeness, are all suspended, and the investigation is ongoing.”

Couzens had already left the team when the messages were sent in 2021.

The 52-year-old joined the Met Police and later murdered and raped Sarah Everard, 33, in March of that year.

Earlier this year, an inquiry found the Deal resident should never have been given a job as a police officer following a history of alleged sexual offending dating back nearly 20 years.

Kent Police has been contacted for further comment.