Infiltrating Left-Wing Political Groups: The Role of Undercover Police Officers

The podcast episode explores the world of undercover policing and the tactics used by Special Demonstration Squad (SDS) and National Public Order Intelligence Unit (MPOIU) officers. Recruits are trained to blend in with left-wing political groups for extended periods, necessitating radical changes in appearance. They adopt new names and backstories, carefully mirroring the beliefs and interests of their targets. The aim is to gather intelligence on protests, discussions, and even romantic relationships. The episode reveals the controversial practice of officers forming romantic connections while undercover, risking their cover being blown. The episode also touches upon the legal and ethical boundaries of undercover work, highlighting the need for officers to strike a delicate balance between infiltration and provocation.