Scotland Yard has arrested a 28-year-old man in connection with the theft of former Downing Street chief of staff Morgan McSweeney's mobile phone. The man was taken into custody last Wednesday on suspicion of handling stolen goods and was later released on bail. Police have confirmed that he is not suspected of being involved in the original theft, which occurred on October 20 last year.
Concerns Over Lost Messages
The incident has raised significant concerns that important communications regarding Lord Peter Mandelson's appointment as US ambassador may have been lost. The phone has not yet been recovered, and authorities are continuing their investigation.
Arrest Details
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson stated: “Officers investigating the theft of a mobile phone in Belgrave Road, Pimlico, on October 20 2025 have arrested a 28-year-old man on suspicion of handling stolen goods. The arrest took place on Wednesday April 29 at an address in Peckham. The man was taken into police custody and later bailed.”
“He is suspected of receiving the phone after it was stolen and then selling it on. He is not suspected of any involvement in the original theft. The phone has not been recovered.”
Background
Morgan McSweeney, who served as chief of staff at Number 10, had his phone stolen in an incident that sparked fears over the security of sensitive political information. The arrest marks a development in the case, but the whereabouts of the device remain unknown.



