Information about the Violent Crime Taskforce (VCTF)/Violence Suppression Unit (VSU)

Freedom of information request reference no: 01.FOI.22.024390

I note you seek access to the following information:

I am seeking information on the Violent Crime Taskforce, those questions will be listed below.

1) What "Syndicate" covers Lambeth?
(Example - Syndicate19 covers Croydon)

2) Does VCTF use Syndicate as a callsign when talking on the radio (Example - Syndicate 19 to control ext)

3) What is the highest ranking officer on the ground?
(Example - Inspector ext)

4) Does VCTF have SLT callsigns?
(Example - Oscar Tango 53 is RTPC Superintendent)

5) Does each Borough have a dedicated VCTF resource, or does it work on intel.

Decision

I have today decided to disclose the located information to you in full.

Please find below information pursuant to your request above.

Q1 - What "Syndicate" covers Lambeth?
(Example - Syndicate19 covers Croydon)

Syndicate deployments are intelligence led and we also conduct operations. Any one of our syndicates could be posted to Croydon not a specific one.

Q2 - Does VCTF use Syndicate as a callsign when talking on the radio (Example - Syndicate 19 to control ext)

Yes all the syndicates use call signs. These can be for an individual or a patrol car.

Q3 - What is the highest ranking officer on the ground? (Example - Inspector ext)

Most deployments will be led by a sergeant but a deployment can be led by officers up to the rank of Chief Inspector.

Q4 - Does VCTF have SLT callsigns?(Example - Oscar Tango 53 is RTPC Superintendent)

Yes, all officers have a shoulder number or call sign.

Q5 - Does each Borough have a dedicated VCTF resource, or does it work on intel.

The VCTF is a pan London response to violence and all BCUs have access to this additional help. The VCTF deploys to the areas of greatest need and this is intelligence led.