Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit strengthens fight against serious and organised crime

The Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organised Crime Unit (YHROCU) continues to play a vital role in tackling serious and organised crime (SOC) across the region according to a report published by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

Through strategic planning, strong partnerships, and innovative approaches, YHROCU is delivering results that protect communities and disrupt criminal networks.  

The inspection report, published today, has rated the YHROCU as ‘Good’.  

The YHROCU works with the region’s four police forces (Humberside, North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire Police) as well as with regional partners and national agencies, including the National Crime Agency (NCA) to tackle serious and organised crime including fraud, cyber crime, drug supply, modern slavery and child sexual exploitation.  

HMICFRS reports that YHROCU shows strategic leadership and collaboration by operating under a robust strategic threat assessment and control strategy, aligning regional priorities with those of the NCA.  

A total of 11 priority threats have been identified, with dedicated thematic groups meeting quarterly to coordinate responses.   

Multi-agency tasking meetings ensure collaboration with partners such as Border Force, while monthly reviews with SOC leaders from regional forces assess the effectiveness of YHROCU’s support.  

Operational successes include the seizure of £4.5 million linked to cryptocurrency-enabled money laundering and the safeguarding of 143 victims of courier fraud.   

The Protect and Economic Crime Team (PECT) has executed 15 search warrants, intercepted illicit funds, and secured over £103,000 in victim reimbursements.  

The YHROCU was praised for its innovative approach to tackling courier fraud, a high-harm offence where suspects deceive victims into handing over money or personal information by impersonating trusted officials to.  

The Proactive Economic Crime Team (PECT) began proactively monitoring calls for service to identify early opportunities to disrupt courier fraud. This was formalised into an overarching approach to disrupting courier fraud across the region. It led to multiple arrests of suspects operating outside the region, particularly in London and was shared with the City of London Police, which has since adopted the tactic in its role as the national lead for economic crime and fraud.   

The PECT has also supported constituent forces by sharing learning, upskilling teams and co-ordinating joint operational responses.  

YHROCU’s cybercrime unit is pioneering public education initiatives, including the Cyber Spotlight virtual reality tool and the Cyber Switch Up programme for young people. These efforts aim to prevent online crime and promote lawful behaviour.  

To strengthen technical expertise, YHROCU runs an internship programme attracting computer science graduates to its Technical Development Unit. Over half of participants have progressed to permanent roles, helping the unit deploy cutting-edge technology against SOC threats.  

The report found that YHROCU remains committed to protecting vulnerable individuals and communities. Initiatives include training for SOC partners, reducing cuckooing linked to county lines, and delivering cyber security advice through the Cyber Blue Line van. 

Ramona Senior, temporary head of the YHROCU said: “Serious and organised crime continues to evolve with relentless complexity and technological sophistication.   

“That’s why an effective response requires commitment and close collaboration between local forces and ROCUs so that we can ensure we continually adapt and strengthen our approach to keeping our communities safe.   

“Our teams work tirelessly, in partnership, to protect the most vulnerable and bring offenders to justice. 

“I am immensely proud that the report’s findings recognise the dedication, professionalism, and innovation demonstrated by our officers and staff in keeping the public safe.”  

T/Assistant Chief Constable Heather Whoriskey, chief officer lead for the YHROCU said: “I am pleased that HMICFRS has graded the Yorkshire & Humber ROCU as good.   

“This positive outcome reflects the professionalism, commitment, and hard work of our officers and staff, and reassurance to the communities we serve.   

“We will continue to focus on continuous improvement and on tackling the threat from serious and organised crime across the region.”