London has announced the formation of a new national police force, poised to become the UK’s equivalent of the FBI. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood unveiled the initiative as part of sweeping police reforms aimed at tackling serious and complex crimes. The new entity, known as the National Police Service (NBS), will consolidate existing agencies to enhance the fight against terrorism, fraud, and organized criminal gangs.
The NBS will integrate several key organizations, including the National Crime Agency, regional organized crime units, and the Metropolitan Police’s Counter Terrorism Policing command. Also included are the National Police Air Service, currently managed by West Yorkshire Police, and the National Roads Policing unit. This consolidation aims to create a more unified and effective national response to evolving criminal threats.
The Home Secretary emphasized that the current policing model is outdated, struggling to effectively address modern crime. Many local forces, she stated, lack the specialized skills and resources necessary to combat complex issues like fraud, online child abuse, and sophisticated organized crime networks.
“We are establishing a new National Police Service – a British FBI – that will employ world-class talent and cutting-edge technology to track down and apprehend dangerous criminals,” Mahmood stated. This strategic move will allow local forces to concentrate on addressing crime within their specific communities.
The NBS will also be responsible for setting national standards for police training and procuring advanced technologies, including facial recognition systems, on behalf of all British police forces. This centralized approach aims to ensure that all officers have access to the best possible resources and training to effectively combat crime across the country. The reforms are expected to be detailed further in a forthcoming white paper.
