BY SCM ONLINE REPORTER
A CRACK squad of ten extraordinary Metropolitan Police heroes have been officially named in the King’s Birthday Honours List for their jaw-dropping dedication to keeping Londoners safe.
The list of legendary crime-fighters includes a pioneer who tackles deadly synthetic opioids, a tech wizard busting organised crime networks, and a detective who finally brought the killer of heroic Police Sergeant Matt Ratana to justice.
Top boss Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said he was “proud” to see his team’s immense public service, hard work, and bravery recognised at the highest level.
Dean Ames OBE (Forensic Drugs Operations Manager)
Forensic expert Dean has spent a staggering four decades on the frontline of science, becoming the Met’s secret weapon against lethal street drugs.
He was awarded an OBE after leading the charge against the terrifying rise of spiked drinks and deadly synthetic opioids, helping to save countless lives.
Dean said: “The illicit drugs market in London and the UK continues to evolve and is the most complex and perhaps dangerous within Europe. I see my role today is to assist in addressing these challenges, raise awareness and protect the public from harm.”
THE COVERT TECH WIZARD
Brian Whitaker MBE (Technical Surveillance Unit)
If you’ve seen it in a spy film, Brian probably built it. As the Head of Engineering for the Met’s secret operations unit, Brian has spent 40 years inventing cutting-edge tools to help undercover cops smash organised crime gangs and nail terrorists.
Brian said: “I feel truly humbled to be recognised with this honour for the adventure that four decades in the Met has given me.”
THE LIFE-SAVER
Retired PC Anne Elizabeth Hook BEM (Met Operations)
Anne scooped the British Empire Medal after turning her own personal battles into a lifeline for others.
She founded the pioneering Blue Light Alcohol Support Team (BLAST), a confidential network helping police officers and staff battle alcohol dependency. Her brave work has quite literally saved the lives of the people who protect us.
THE COLD CASE CRUSADER & STREET LEADERS
The prestigious King’s Police Medal (KPM) was handed out to five elite officers changing the game on London’s streets:
DS Emma Rickard-Watkins KPM: A 20-year veteran who has dedicated her life to smashing international human trafficking rings and rescuing vulnerable modern-day slaves.
Inspector Mohammed Uddin KPM: A beloved community leader who spent ten years on the ground in Homerton, relentlessly taking down street robbers, shoplifters, and car thieves.
DCI Yasmin Lalani KPM: A powerhouse defender with 30 years of service, Yasmin has led the Met’s highest-performing units targeting violence against women and girls.
Det Chief Supt Nick Blackburn KPM: A legendary homicide and Flying Squad boss who led the complex, high-profile hunt for the monster who murdered Sergeant Matt Ratana.
Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor KPM: A top-tier chief who handles the high-stakes policing of major national events, counter-terrorism, and massive London protests.
THE ROYAL GUARDS
Two dedicated officers from the Royalty and Specialist Protection command were made Members of the Royal Victorian Order (MVO) for their personal service to the Crown:
PC Darren Randall MVO: A trusted shield who has spent over 20 years protecting high-profile sites and keeping the public safe during major state visits.
Retired Inspector Jag Khangura MVO: A master planner who ensured flawless security at both the historic Coronation of King Charles and the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.
Praising his ranks, Met boss Sir Mark Rowley added:
”Behind every award is a story of professionalism, resilience and determination.
”It is a privilege to lead an organisation where people step forward every day, never knowing what the next incident or investigation may bring, but serving Londoners with care, compassion and courage.”