THE Metropolitan Police have been accused of anti-queer bias by protesters, whose march through London this week condemned the force’s actions following the death of a drag artist.

Heklina, born Stephen Grygelko, was found dead in a flat in Soho on April 3 2023.

The investigation into the performer’s death has been criticised for delays, lack of communication and frequent personnel changes, with the Met apologising for failures earlier this year.

More than 100 people marched from the Palace of Westminster to Scotland Yard on Monday in an action supported by performing arts union Equity.

Heklina’s friend Cheddar Gorgeous said: “A life, regardless of how it is lived, holds inherent value — its loss warrants equal care, compassion and thorough investigation.

“To suggest otherwise is not just misconduct, but a dangerous failure that places multiple communities at risk.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah, leader of policing in the local area, acknowledged the concerns, saying: “A full review of the investigation is ongoing to establish any missed opportunities. 

“We continue to examine all lines of enquiry [into the] death and remain steadfast in our determination to establish the facts.”