Looking back on 195 years of the Metropolitan Police - photos, video and where it all began

This year marks an extraordinary milestone in the history of law enforcement: the 195th anniversary of the Metropolitan Police Service, a force that has become synonymous with public safety in London.

Established in 1829, the Met Police has grown from a fledgling organization to one of the world’s most renowned law enforcement agencies, shaping not only British policing but also influencing models of policing around the globe.

As we celebrate nearly two centuries of service, it's worth reflecting on the key moments that have defined its evolution and impact.

The Birth of the Met Police: 1829

The story of the Met Police begins on September 29, 1829, when then-Home Secretary Sir Robert Peel introduced the Metropolitan Police Act.

At a time when crime in London was on the rise and informal law enforcement was proving ineffective, Peel envisioned a professional and organized police force dedicated to preventing crime rather than merely responding to it.

The term "bobbies" or "peelers" quickly caught on in reference to the force, in tribute to its founder.

The Met's first officers, numbering just over 1,000, were tasked with patrolling the streets on foot, identifiable by their top hats and blue-tail coats.

They worked with one guiding principle in mind: to prevent crime through visible policing. This preventive approach is still a key component of modern policing. The Met’s origins are rooted in the notion that the power of the police is derived from the consent of the public—a principle famously articulated in Peel's Nine Principles of Policing.

The Early Years: Professionalisation and Public Trust

During its early decades, the Metropolitan Police faced its fair share of challenges. Public scepticism was high, and the force had to work hard to earn the trust of the Londoners they served.

However, through strict recruitment criteria, professional discipline, and the expansion of patrols across the city, the Met slowly won over the population.

By 1839, the force’s jurisdiction expanded significantly with the creation of new police districts, which allowed it to respond more effectively to crime.

A key milestone in the Met's evolution was the 1842 formation of the Detective Branch, the forerunner of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), which specialized in investigating serious crimes like murder, theft, and fraud.

The CID became vital as the Met Police developed its investigative skills and helped build a reputation for methodical, detail-oriented crime solving.

Growth and Modernisation: From the 20th Century to Today

The 20th century saw the Metropolitan Police undergo significant changes as it adapted to new societal demands and technological advancements. In 1919, the Met established its first official Women’s Department, initially led by Sofia Stanley, with the goal of investigating offenses such as child cruelty and sexual assault.

Women in the force played increasingly vital roles in policing, and today, they represent a significant portion of the Met’s workforce.

World War II presented new challenges as the force had to maintain public order during air raids and assist with the enforcement of wartime laws.

The post-war era, however, saw even greater transformations. The introduction of motorised patrols, for example, dramatically increased the reach and response time of officers. The Met’s fingerprints, forensic science, and, later, DNA databases became essential tools in solving crimes.

In the 1960s and '70s, the fight against organised crime and terrorism came to the forefront, leading to the development of specialised units such as the Flying Squad (known for tackling armed robberies) and Special Branch, which focused on counterterrorism efforts.

Policing in the Digital Age

In recent decades, the Metropolitan Police has continued to adapt to an increasingly complex and interconnected world. The rise of cybercrime, human trafficking, and terrorism has required a more agile and intelligence-driven approach.

The Met's counter-terrorism efforts have intensified, particularly after the 7/7 London bombings in 2005. The establishment of the National Counter Terrorism Policing Network and close coordination with other international agencies reflect the global nature of modern threats.

Technological advancements have also transformed day-to-day policing. Body-worn cameras, extensive use of CCTV, and data analytics play crucial roles in evidence collection and crime prevention. Digital platforms have allowed for greater communication and cooperation with the public, continuing the Met’s focus on community trust and engagement.

The Met’s Legacy: Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its long-standing achievements, the Metropolitan Police has not been without controversy.

Scandals related to institutional racism, corruption, and misconduct have at times rocked public confidence. In the last few decades, the force has taken steps to address these issues, including greater diversity in recruitment, the introduction of more transparent investigative processes, and ongoing training to address issues such as racial bias.

Looking forward, the Met continues to face both familiar and new challenges. London's ever-growing population, increased public scrutiny, and the complexities of crime in the digital age will require innovative policing strategies.

The Met's continued focus on community policing and transparency, combined with cutting-edge technologies, will likely shape its future approach.

195 years of Met Police

As we celebrate 195 years of the Metropolitan Police, it's clear that the force has come a long way since its modest beginnings. From the iconic "bobbies on the beat" to today’s highly specialized units tackling global threats, the Met’s history is a reflection of London’s evolution.

Its ability to adapt, innovate, and maintain public trust will be crucial as it embarks on the next chapter of its journey.