The Gibraltar Defence Police (GDP) have announced the formal appointment of John McVea.  

A statement from British Forces Gibraltar follows below:

John joined the GDP having completed 32 years' policing service in Northern Ireland.  

He joined the Royal Ulster Constabulary in 1990 which later became the Police Service of  Northern Ireland.  

John enjoyed a successful career becoming a Detective Chief Superintendent responsible  for the Serious Crime Branch which included leading Counter Terrorism investigations in  Northern Ireland.  

Commenting on his successful appointment, GDP’s Chief of Police, Mr John McVea said: "I  am delighted and very proud to have been selected to be the Chief of Police for the Gibraltar  Defence Police and the Defence Guard Service.  

To lead an organisation that serves to ensure the safety and security of British Forces and  Gibraltar is a huge privilege for me and I look forward to making a positive contribution to  British Force's mission here in Gibraltar."  

As a Detective Chief Superintendent, he previously held the positions of Head of  Professional Standards Department and Head of Organised Crime Branch.  

In February 2023 he joined the Royal Gibraltar Police as an independent senior investigating office where he remained until taking up his position as Chief of Police for the Defence  Police.  

Commander British Forces, Commodore Tom Guy said: “I am delighted to confirm John  McVea as the newly appointed Gibraltar Defence Police’s Chief of Police.  

John brings with him a vast amount of knowledge and experience and I look forward to  working with him.”