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Technical Surveillance Unit

The Technical Surveillance Unit (TSU), including the Technical Development Unit (TDU), advises and supports the use of technical equipment and covert methods for gathering intelligence and evidence. We also conduct research and development into emerging technologies and technical methods of solving crime.

Our services

The TSU can advise on:

  • covert video and deployment methods for capturing evidence, using video management systems and analytics to target key footage and improve access
  • covert audio installations
  • tracking technologies capable of location reporting that can be incorporated into many different hosts, such as vehicles, vessels, containers, agricultural machinery or smaller items for the tracking of assets
  • Technical Surveillance Counter Measures (TSCM) to identify the presence of technical surveillance equipment. These searches can be used where reassurance is required that due diligence has been carried out in respect of technical surveillance
  • the provision of overt CCTV systems to support large events
  • a range of nationally sensitive specialist covert tactics and technical solutions to help solve your specific problems

The Technical Development Unit (TDU) identifies and deploys tactical interference and monitoring solutions authorised by any Targeted Equipment Interference (TEI) warrant to covertly obtain data and includes research and development.

The TDU can advise on:

  • any capability that requires TEI warranty falling within the IPA 2016. This includes collaboration with Covert Authorities Bureaus (CABs) and SIOs
  • Remotely Stored Electronic Data (RSED) excluding any data that can otherwise be recovered under PACE or consent (or any other statutory power)
  • covert digital forensics, accessing data stored on devices that cannot be secured under PACE or consent (or any other statutory power)
  • radio frequency exploitation, including Wi-Fi and the identification of equipment on associated networks
  • jamming and the disruption of specific radio frequencies, including the detection of unlawful jamming by third parties
  • specialist advice and support regarding mobile phone networks concerning serious and organised crime and threat-to-life investigations

How to request services

During office hours, contact your local TSU hub directly. They are able to give you advice on suitable tactics and how to request services:

  • Dorset – Ferndown TSU Hub
    Team Leader: Jon Barrett 07873 221175
    alternative contacts:
    07802 875 008
    07873 221 207
    07547 658 477
  • Wiltshire – Devizes TSU Hub
    Team Leader: Paul Greves 07873 221 200


TDU Team Leader Richard White 07823 373 996
TEI Manager: Pete Harrison 07889 656 964

Regional TSU Manager: Ian Moxham 07802 874 378


Out of hours contact the on-call TSU Team Leader via the SWROCU Gateway:

email – swrocugateway@avonandsomerset.police.uk
by phone – 01278 647 299

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