In his first interview, Det Ch Supt Holdcroft says his unit has more support from senior Met officers than is seen among the largely hostile “Central Police” in Line of Duty.
“In reality we spend a lot more of our time sat in front of computers than taking part in car chases and gun fights,” he tells The Independent.
“Our officers will spend months working on an investigation, which includes gathering intelligence and building up a case against officers accused of wrongdoing.
Many police officers watch Line of Duty, although the vast majority ridicule it as sensationalised and unrealistic.