After Latest Arrests, Sun Newspaper ‘Will Continue’ Says Rupert Murdoch
News International owner Rupert Murdoch has said he is committed to publishing the Sun newspaper, following the arrest of five of its employees.
They were among eight people arrested over alleged corrupt payments to police and public servants.
A Surrey Police officer, a member of the armed forces and a Ministry of Defence employee were also arrested.
Sun editor Dominic Mohan said he was “shocked” by the arrests but pledged to continue to lead the paper.
The BBC understands picture editor John Edwards, chief reporter John Kay, chief foreign correspondent Nick Parker, reporter John Sturgis and associate editor Geoff Webster were arrested.
The arrests are part of the Operation Elveden probe into payments to police.
But the latest arrests mark a widening out of the operation to include the investigation of evidence in relation to suspected corruption involving public officials who are not police officers.
News International chief executive Tom Mockridge issued a memo to Sun staff, which said: “The Sun has a proud history of delivering ground-breaking journalism.
“I have had a personal assurance today from Rupert Murdoch about his total commitment to continue to own and publish The Sun newspaper.”
Mr Murdoch is expected to visit staff in London later this week.
Mr Mockridge also told staff that “today we are facing our greatest challenge” following the arrests of five of its staff, which was “difficult for everyone on The Sun and particularly for those of you who work closely with those involved”.
A News International spokeswoman said the memo sets out News Corporation and Mr Murdoch’s position.
BBC News correspondent Joe Lynam said Sun employees he had spoken to were concerned there was something of a “witch-hunt”.
Mr Mohan said: “I’m as shocked as anyone by today’s arrests but am determined to lead the Sun through these difficult times.
“I have a brilliant staff and we have a duty to serve our readers and will continue to do that. Our focus is on putting out Monday’s newspaper.”