A DETECTIVE whose allegations helped spark the controversial Operation Lancet inquiry was yesterday forced to quit his job.

Detective Constable Ian Martin was a key witness against former Middlesbrough CID chief Ray Mallon in the multi-million pound anti-corruption investigation.

He was referred to as "the whistleblower", but yesterday he was "required to resign" from Cleveland Police following an internal tribunal hearing.

The Northern Echo understands that Mr Martin, who was already suspended, admitted some of the disciplinary charges against him. It is understood that the charges did not relate to Lancet but arose from Mr Martin's personal behaviour and interests outside the force. It is believed he had a sideline as a bodyguard and bouncer.

Nearly five years ago, Mr Martin, along with another officer, claimed that Middlesbrough detectives offered drugs to criminal suspects in exchange for confessions. It was claimed that Mr Mallon admonished the officers concerned but kept the situation covered up.

Mr Mallon has always strenuously denied the claim, but it was enough to spark Operation Lancet which has cost up to £7m and has caused much bitterness within the Cleveland force with separate inquiries spinning off it.

It has caused a review of the way the police handle complaints and led to calls for the resignation of the Chief Constable Barry Shaw.

Despite the time and cost of Lancet, no criminal charges were brought as a result of it, although Mr Mallon did, in February, admit 14 disciplinary charges.

He said that this was the only way to free himself of the force so that he could stand as Middlesbrough's first directly-elected mayor. Because of his admissions, he, too, was "required to resign" from the force. He went on to win a crushing victory in May's election over the local Labour Party which had become identified with his accusers.

Mr Martin's case comes only days after it emerged that fellow Cleveland officer Detective Constable Dave Coulthard was also "required to resign" as the disciplinary arm of Lancet - Operation Eagle - heard the first of many internal cases.

About 600 disciplinary notices are thought to have been issued to scores of officers who face the sack or demotion.

Hearings are taking place at Cleveland Police's Ladgate Lane HQ and also around the country, with some cases being overseen by chief constables from other forces.

A former colleague of Mr Martin, who did not want to be named, said Mr Martin had expected to keep his job despite the charges against him. He said Mr Martin felt he was being made a scapegoat for Lancet's lack of progress.

Last night, Mr Martin, who lives in Marton, Middlesbrough, was unavailable for comment.

Cleveland Police Federation said that with proceedings continuing against other officers it too was unwilling to comment, but confirmed that Mr Martin would have leave to appeal. Once he reaches the age of 60, he will be entitled to a police pension.

A spokeswoman for the force said: "This is a private matter between the employer and the employee and we have nothing to say."