Specialist Crime

Covert Policing

Who we are

The Covert Policing Command has it’s origins in the Criminal Intelligence Branch which was formed in 1960 to collect, evaluate, and disseminate information about organised crime and prominent criminals. With the advances in technology and criminal methods the Command has evolved to become a world leader in covert policing operations.

What we do

The Prison Intelligence Unit is responsible for the flow of information between London’s Prisons, the police and other agencies.

The Covert Source Management Unit provides information, advice and policy relating to the management and handling of Covert Human Intelligence Sources (formerly known as informants).

The Dedicated Source Units and Source Development Unit identify and manage the safe, efficient and effective use of CHIS across London to achieve the objectives of the MPS as well as gaining intelligence within specialist areas of criminality.

The Covert Operations Group is the controlling branch for all undercover operations conducted throughout the MPS. All aspects of this field of deployment are dealt with in addition to test purchase and decoy operations.

The Assisting Offender De-brief Unit is responsible for debrief of offenders who admit their criminality and provide evidence against others involved in serious organised crime.

The Criminal Justice Protection Unit is responsible for offering advice and assistance for both witness and jury protection matters related to serious and organised crime.