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Scott Mills’ departure from the BBC has sparked widespread attention after new details emerged linking his dismissal to a past police investigation.

The long-time broadcaster, who had been a familiar voice across BBC radio for more than two decades, was removed from his role last week. While the BBC has not publicly disclosed the exact reasons for ending his contract, it is now understood that the decision is connected to a previously undisclosed investigation dating back several years.

According to reports, the Metropolitan Police began investigating allegations in December 2016 following a referral from another force. The claims related to alleged serious sexual offences involving a teenage boy, said to have taken place between 1997 and 2000. Mills was later interviewed under caution in 2018. However, after a full review of the evidence, prosecutors concluded that there was insufficient basis to bring charges, and the case was formally closed in 2019.

Despite the investigation ending without charges, the issue appears to have resurfaced following a recent complaint. Sources suggest the BBC acted quickly after becoming aware of new information, removing Mills from the air while assessing the situation before ultimately terminating his contract.

The sudden nature of his exit reportedly shocked colleagues across the corporation. Staff were informed via an internal email, with many said to be surprised by the announcement given Mills’ long-standing presence and senior role within the organisation. He had only recently taken over the high-profile Radio 2 breakfast show, a position regarded as one of the most prominent in UK broadcasting.

BBC management has remained cautious in its public response, stating only that Mills is no longer working with the organisation and declining to comment further on individual matters. Internally, however, there are said to be ongoing discussions about how to handle the fallout and who might replace him on air.

Mills’ career at the BBC spanned more than 25 years, beginning at Radio 1 in the late 1990s. Over time, he became one of the network’s most recognisable voices, hosting a range of programmes across radio and television. In recent years, he had also taken on major broadcasting roles, including work connected to Eurovision coverage.

It’s the latest scandal to hit the BBC following several high profile cases including Jimmy Saville and Huw Edwards.