Eight police forces in England and Wales failed to conduct any undercover operations in the past year, according to Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley. He voiced concern that some constabularies might be losing proficiency in using covert tactics, which are vital for combating organized crime, including child exploitation rings and drug trafficking.
Sir Mark, the most senior police officer in Britain, did not identify the specific forces that did not carry out basic undercover work. However, he stated that this situation raises a "serious question about whether these tactics are available wherever they are needed." He believes these proactive skills are as critical to policing as visible street patrols.
This revelation comes as police leaders are advocating for significant reform, including the creation of a National Police Service to handle major and complex crimes. The proposal suggests that around ten larger regional constabularies would sustain specialized functions like murder investigations and serious organized crime work, with support from numerous local policing commands.
Sir Mark explained that the current structure, where 43 smaller forces struggle to maintain all specialized capabilities, can lead to a neglect of essential tactics. He noted that undercover officers are crucial for online investigations targeting child abusers and for operations against drug dealers on the streets.
While undercover policing has been a routine tool for infiltrating criminal groups and gathering evidence on grooming gangs, the Metropolitan Police has also faced scrutiny for historic instances of covert officers surveilling activists. A public inquiry into these past practices is ongoing.
Addressing reform plans in Manchester, Sir Mark highlighted that modern policing has not kept pace with technological advancements. He attributed investment shortfalls to successive governments, acknowledging that significant new funding for the estimated £2 billion reforms is unlikely. He described the continued disinvestment in policing as "dangerous" and emphasized that reform alone cannot replace necessary investment. He stated, "We cannot ask local officers to confront international criminal networks without the strength of a wider service behind them," adding that "Strong local policing needs both. Reform must deliver both."
Earlier this year, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood outlined a reform blueprint that includes a National Police Service, projected to save £350 million for frontline policing.