Colin Pirie, who is the NWCU’s Senior Intelligence Officer has been commended for his outstanding work with the NWCU. The commendation was presented by Durham’s Chief Constable Barton at the National Intelligence Policing Conference in May.
Colin, who previously served with Lothian and Borders Police, has been with the NWCU since its inception in 2006. He is responsible for managing the Police Wildlife Intelligence Database, ensuring it complies with all the legal protocols and conventions, such as NIM, MOPI and DPA. Following their inspection of the NWCU, Inspectors from the Office of Surveillance Commission, reported that the NWCU “is meticulous in the way it deals with intelligence”, which is largely due to Colin’s diligence.
Colin is responsible for managing, processing and disseminating 1000s of intelligence logs throughout the UK. He regularly works with the National Crime Agency, EUROPOL and INTERPOL, which has resulted in arrests and convictions being made in other countries including, USA and New Zealand.
Colin was responsible for identifying early linked criminal activity across the UK and later Europe relating to illegal Rhino horn trade and thefts. As a result Organised Crime Groups were identified, which later resulted in multiple arrests across the UK and internationally.
Chief Constable Simon Prince (ACPO Lead Wildlife and Rural Crime) said, “National recognition of Colin’s work is well deserved. He has made a significant contribution in the fight against wildlife crime and I am delighted to see him rewarded for his tireless work”.
Detective Inspector Nevin Hunter, Head of the NWCU said, “The work of an Intelligence Officer often goes unnoticed. However intelligence is the lifeblood of law enforcement. Colin’s knowledge and commitment in this area is second to none, there is nobody more deserving of this award”.