On 6 September 2025, I pedalled away from New Scotland Yard, London on a bicycle — my goal: to cycle across Europe, visiting police colleagues, discovering how different nations approach policing and experiencing the true spirit of the International Police Association — friendship, service and solidarity across borders.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the IPA founded by Arthur Troop in 1950 under the timeless motto “Service through Friendship.” Seventy-five years on, that spirit feels as strong as ever. As I’ve crossed borders, shared stories and connected with colleagues across twelve countries, I’ve been reminded at every turn that Troop’s vision remains alive and thriving — what a fitting way to celebrate 75 years of policing friendship.

Over 2,200 kilometres and 12 countries later — through the UK, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Italy, Slovenia and Croatia — I rolled into Zagreb in mid-October, completing Stage 1 of the journey.

The IPA Connection

At the heart of this adventure has been the IPA family. In many countries, members opened doors and homes, offering guidance, encouragement and, often, a hearty meal.

In Belgium, IPA colleagues hosted me at the IPA House in Antwerp and showed me around town — a warm, welcoming hub that embodies the association’s openness and camaraderie.

Crossing into Germany, I was shown the forensics department in Offenburg, the police headquarters in Aachen, and welcomed by the IPA Villingen-Schwenningen branch, who arranged visits and shared insights into their robust training culture over two days.

IPA Netherlands offered accommodation with friends and a memorable ride-along with the Maastricht Police Department, giving me a glimpse into their efficient, community-oriented approach.

In Switzerland, I was met with generous hospitality and the opportunity to see St. Gallen City Police’sexcellent facilities, where I discussed local policing priorities with officers balancing professionalism and precision in equal measure.

IPA Austria hosted a cultural and social day beginning with Mass at Stams Abbey, followed by a superb lunch and lively discussions about policing traditions and European cooperation.

IPA Italy offered warmth and espresso in equal measure. Our conversations with Bruneck Local Policefocused on community partnerships and how Italian officers build trust through engagement with schools and neighbourhood groups — a reminder that connection starts with visibility. The Carabinierialso extended their welcome, exchanging gifts and memorabilia that now travel with me as proud reminders of shared service.

In Slovenia, IPA members at short notice hosted a visit to Celje Police Headquarters, treating me to lunch and fascinating discussions about policing culture, professional standards and shared challenges.

Finally, in Croatia I was welcomed by IPA Zagreb President Muradif Smajlović and his colleague Mate Janković who arranged a visit to one of Zagreb’s police stations. I toured the departments, saw the vehicles and cells and even took an indoor test ride on a police bicycle. The evening brought a generous Balkan welcome — good food, local beer and even better company.

Policing, People and Perspective

Across Europe, common threads emerged. Recruitment and retention are challenges everywhere. Community policing — in its many forms — remains the cornerstone of public trust. And while tools, tactics and uniforms differ, the shared goal is universal: to serve with integrity and empathy.

For me, these visits have been professional development of the richest kind — conversations no classroom could replicate, and friendships that have already become lifelong connections.

Campfires, Kindness and Continued Pedalling

Many nights have been spent camping in forests or fields with the occasional night here and there enjoying a proper bed, a washing machine, or much-needed dinner. Between rainstorms, border crossings and countless coffees shared with locals, it’s been a journey defined by kindness.

Stage 1 ends here in Zagreb, but Stage 2 is now underway, heading through the Balkans and onwards towards Greece and Turkey. The wheels, thankfully, are still turning — powered not only by pasta and persistence, but by the generosity and friendship of IPA colleagues across Europe.

To all who have supported and hosted me: thank you. You’ve shown me that the true spirit of the IPA isn’t written in statutes — it’s lived, every day, in gestures of hospitality, curiosity, and connection.

Follow the journey:

📸 Instagram: @thecyclingdetective

✉️ Email: thecyclingdetective@hotmail.com

Alex Williams, 6 Region, London Met branch