Organised crime continues to pose a significant threat to communities, affecting the safety and well-being of individuals and families. To address this issue, the Kinetic OCG team, with a specific focus on tackling Organised Crime Groups (OCGs), plays an essential role in Operation Shield, an operation aimed at reducing the harm caused by criminal networks, including drug trafficking and exploitation. Detective Inspector Tom Kelly, who leads the Kinetic OCG team, shared some insights about the team's work and their role in Op Shield.

Who is the Kinetic OCG team, and how are you involved in Op Shield?
“Our team is made up of a range of officers, including Detective Sergeants, Detective Constables, Police Constables, and Integrated Offender Managers.

“We focus on investigating organised crime, and our work spans proactive policing methods like stop searches, executing warrants, making arrests, and conducting investigations into drugs and other criminal activities. We’re also involved in supporting offenders’ rehabilitation through our Integrated Offender Managers, who work alongside probation colleagues.

“In Operation Shield, our role is to conduct arrests, execute warrants, and support ongoing investigations. We’re focusing on disrupting criminal networks that cause harm in our communities, and in doing so, we aim to reduce the impact of these criminal activities, whether it’s drug dealing, exploitation, or violent crime.

Tell us about your role within the Kinetic OCG team and what you enjoy most about your work?

“I’m the Detective Inspector, I’m responsible for leading the team on the Southbank, setting strategies, and, in some cases, taking overall accountability as the senior investigator. I’ve been in this role for about six months now, but before that, I worked in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), which has given me a strong foundation for leading the team.

“What I enjoy most is the sense of teamwork. I’m privileged to work with such a skilled and dedicated group of officers. Each member of the team brings unique expertise, whether it’s in executing high-risk warrants, conducting financial investigations, or supporting offenders through rehabilitation. The work we do is challenging but incredibly rewarding because we’re all united in our goal of disrupting organised crime and protecting the community.

“Ultimately, it’s about making a difference. Every arrest, every seizure, every investigation is one step closer to keeping our communities safe from harm, and that’s what keeps me motivated.

How does the Kinetic OCG team specifically contribute to Op Shield?
“The Kinetic OCG team brings a range of specialist skills to Operation Shield. We’re heavily involved in executing warrants, making arrests, and supporting investigations into drug trafficking and other organised crime activities. We’re trained in methods of entry for high-risk warrants, we conduct phone examinations, carry out financial inquiries, and use drug testing as part of our investigations.

“What sets our team apart is the hidden element of our work with Integrated Offender Managers. While we’re actively targeting criminals and investigating offences, we’re also working to reduce reoffending by supporting offenders who are looking to change their lives. This rehabilitation aspect is just as important in disrupting organised crime because it helps prevent future harm to the community.

How do you and your team collaborate with other departments during Op Shield?
“One of the things I’m most proud of is the collaboration between our team and other departments. We work alongside CID, Neighbourhood Policing, Response teams, and external partners, such as probation services. These strong relationships allow us to share intelligence, plan joint operations, and support each other’s work.

“Op Shield is a large-scale operation, and it’s essential that we’re all on the same page. We regularly meet to discuss our plans, exchange information, and make sure we’re all playing our part. It’s this collective effort that drives the positive impact. The key to success in tackling organised crime is teamwork, both within our own unit and with external partners. We’re all working towards the same goal, protecting the public and keeping our communities safe.

What successes have you had as part of Op Shield so far?
“So far, we’ve seen some great impact. We’ve executed several warrants, made arrests, and seen charges brought for drug-related crimes. One of the most satisfying aspects is seeing the direct link between our work and the reduction in harm caused by criminal activity. For example, the drug supply networks we’ve targeted often fuel other types of crime, like theft, robbery, and even violent crime, as people try to fund their addiction.

“We’re also seeing positive outcomes from our work with vulnerable individuals, such as children who are at risk of exploitation. One of our main objectives is to protect vulnerable people and help direct them away from harm, whether it’s through disrupting drugs-gangs or offering support to those who’ve been exploited. While the work can be difficult, knowing that we’ve made a difference in someone’s life makes it all worthwhile.

How does it feel to be part of such a large-scale operation like Shield?
“We’re all part of a bigger picture, working together towards a shared goal of reducing crime and harm in our communities. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive results of our collective effort, whether it’s a major drug bust, a successful arrest, or knowing that we’ve protected vulnerable individuals from further exploitation.

“What’s most rewarding for me is seeing the dedication and hard work of my team. They’re committed, passionate, and unwavering in their pursuit of justice. The pride I feel when we achieve great results, whether it’s an arrest, a conviction, or even a small step towards breaking a criminal network, is what makes this role so fulfilling.

How can the public help?
“The public’s role not only during Operation Shield plays an important role. They are the eyes and ears of the community, and often, they hold the missing pieces of the puzzle that can help us solve complex investigations. If you see something suspicious or have information that could be helpful, don’t hesitate to report it. You can contact us on 101 or call 999 in an emergency.

“Even if you’re not sure whether your information is important, it’s always worth reporting it. Every piece of information we receive helps us get closer to disrupting criminal activities and keeping our communities safe.”