Located in British Columbia, E Division National Security is part of the National Security Criminal Investigations (NSCI) program with its RCMP headquarters in Ottawa. It is connected to our international partners through NSCI and provincially through our partners with municipal and provincial agencies.

This program is intended to address threats to our national security that are continually changing, presenting an "intelligence challenge" to governments and law enforcement around the world. Terrorist organizations, whether foreign or domestically-based are increasingly sophisticated, with members linked through technology and loosely linked groups or cells, allowing them to operate in an environment where borders are virtual and detection is difficult. This global operations base for terrorist groups emphasizes the importance of an integrated policing approach where intelligence is shared among countries around the world.

Integration

  • National Security requires an integrated approach to ensure early detection and prevention of any potential threats to Canada and the public.
  • The importance of greater integration of resources and intelligence has been heightened by the reality of terrorism for many countries, including Canada.
  • The RCMP has refocused its National Security Enforcement Sections (NSES) in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver following 9/11 to become Integrated National Security Enforcement Teams (INSETs). In the remaining RCMP Divisions national security investigations are conducted by NSES.
  • The purpose for this is to increase the capacity for the collection, sharing and analysis of intelligence among partners with respect to individuals and entities that are a threat to national security and; create an enhanced investigative capacity to bring such individuals and entities to justice; and enhance partner agencies collective ability to combat national security threats and meet all specific mandate responsibilities, consistent with the laws of Canada and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.