Scotland Yard is the headquarters of the London Metropolitan Police. In popular usage, however, the name Scotland Yard means a branch of the London police called the Criminal Investigation Department (C.I.D.). The C.I.D. handles all aspects of criminal investigation in metropolitan London, and police departments throughout the United Kingdom seek its help with difficult cases. Scotland Yard is known throughout the world for its skill and crime-solving techniques.
In addition to the C.I.D., the Metropolitan Police have three other main departments. The Uniform Department patrols the streets to guard against crime and help people with problems. The Traffic Department enforces traffic laws and promotes safety on streets and highways. The Special Branch functions mainly as an information-gathering agency. It also investigates individuals and groups that may endanger national security and protects government officials and distinguished foreign visitors.
The London Metropolitan Police was founded by Sir Robert Peel, a British statesman, in 1829. Ever since, police officers have been called bobbies, after Sir Robert’s nickname. The original headquarters stood near buildings formerly used to house kings and other important visitors from Scotland. As a result, the police facilities became known as Scotland Yard, though the street address was No. 4 Whitehall Place. In 1890, the police moved into offices on the Thames Embankment. These offices were named New Scotland Yard. In 1967, New Scotland Yard moved to the Westminster section of London, near the Houses of Parliament.
