Proactive terrorist investigations and the use of intelligence

Abstract

Outlines how intelligence applies in the field of terrorism, the mechanisms involved, and how they might be improved. Defines intelligence as information relating to a crime that, for whatever reason, cannot be used in court. Describes the two main organisations involved in UK terrorist intelligence, the Security Service and Special Branch, and the relationship between them: this is roughly that the Special Branches in each of the 52 police forces support the Security Service in gathering and analysing intelligence about terrorism. Concludes, however, that it is not clear which one is ultimately responsible for protecting the UK from terrorism. Discusses external bodies like Europol, and two further UK bodies, the new National Terrorist Financial Intelligence Unit and the National Criminal Intelligence Service; their interactions also appear cumbersome. Suggests that there should be a National Special Branch, and possibly a National Counter‐Terrorist Agency.

Citation

Swallow, P. (2003), "Proactive terrorist investigations and the use of intelligence", Journal of Financial Crime, Vol. 10 No. 4, pp. 378-381. https://doi.org/10.1108/13590790310808925