Novichok spy chaser named as MI5 chief
THE spy who led an operation to track down the Russian suspects behind the Salisbury poisoning of Sergei Skripal was yesterday named MI5’s new boss.
Ken McCallum will take over as head of the security service when Sir Andrew Parker steps down at the end of April.
Mr McCallum oversaw counter-terrorism investigations in the run-up to the London 2012 Olympics and led MI5’s operations after terrorist attacks in 2017.
He said: “MI5’s purpose is hugely motivating. Our people strive to keep the country safe, and they always want to go the extra mile.
“Having devoted my working life to that team effort, it is a huge privilege now to be asked to lead it as director general.”
Expertise
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “I have worked closely with Ken and I’m delighted to appoint him as the new director general.
“We are facing unprecedented national security threats and I’m confident that his experience and vision will allow the UK to meet those challenges head on.”
Sir Andrew added: “He brings a wealth of security expertise to the role, which is all the more important today as the country deals with the coronavirus pandemic.”
Mr McCallum was key to the mission to find the men behind the suspected novichok assassination attempt on Russian double agent Skripal and his daughter Yulia in 2018.
Moscow denied any role in the plot but Western countries expelled dozens of Russian spies working under diplomatic cover in response to the poisoning.