Scotland Yard chiefs unaware of undercover unit

A highly-criticised undercover police unit was so secretive even Scotland Yard bosses were unaware that it existed, it has emerged.

The force’s shadowy Special Demonstration Squad was kept under wraps by Special Branch commanders from more senior officers including deputy commissioners and commissioners during the four decades it was in operation.

It has come under fresh criticism for keeping records of personal information linked to bereaved families who were fighting for justice after loved ones were murdered or died after contact with police.