Koklu has been the Director of Operations and Deputy Police Chief in the Rotterdam Unit since March 1, 2024.

“With pride and a great sense of responsibility, I take on the role of police chief of the Rotterdam Unit,” says Koklu. “I accept this position with conviction. The Rotterdam Unit is a region with unique challenges and opportunities: urban dynamics, an international port, social tensions, and a resilient society come together here.”

Tolga Koklu began his career in 1991 in Limburg and has since worked in various units. He has served as OSE and sector head in The Hague, and previously as team leader in Delft. He is also affiliated with the Police Academy, has been a program manager at the European Police Academy in Budapest, and worked for three years as a senior strategic advisor for international police cooperation between Germany and the Netherlands. Before his transition to the Rotterdam unit, he was the Director of Operations in the The Hague Unit.

Koklu: “I believe in police work that is visible, at the grassroots level of society, professional, and people-oriented. In a time when safety is under pressure and crime is becoming increasingly complex, I want to contribute to trust between the police and society, and within the organization. Leadership for me means being present, listening, maintaining direction, and allowing space for innovation. I know from experience how important it is for people to feel seen. A strong police organization is one that values differences and where everyone can work safely.”

Future-proof

He sees it as a strategic task to ensure that the Unit adapts to the rapidly digitizing and globalizing world. “The future-proofing of our organization requires more than just innovation; it requires leadership that connects technology and human resources. By using data more intelligently, digitizing processes, and strengthening the basis from area-based work, we can act more effectively, efficiently, and purposefully. Not only in tackling organized crime but also in increasing trust in our daily work. I have seen in various contexts how data, technology, and international cooperation can make a difference in both daily practice and in investigations.”

Chief Janny Knol: “Tolga Koklu brings an open perspective and solid experience in both local and international police work. He knows what it takes to lead in an urban context and effortlessly connects strategic thinking to daily practice. His strength lies in leading change with a people-oriented approach – with an eye for craftsmanship and continuity. He is of great value for the future of the unit, and I look forward to our collaboration in his new role.”

Involvement

The Works Council of the Rotterdam Unit has worked pleasantly and constructively with Koklu over the past year and a half. Marc van Baren, chairman: “Valuable experiences have been gained in this collaboration. This cooperation gave us confidence in his connecting qualities and involvement. The Works Council sees him as a suitable leader for the Rotterdam Unit. We wish him much success and look forward to continuing the good cooperation.”