POriswork often resembles neither a shield nor a duty; it’s primarily focused on documentation, online training, and educating individuals about driver criminal courses. Yet sometimes, reality echoes artistry. In 2020, the International Police infiltrated Encrochat, an encrypted phone network utilized by organized crime groups globally. They had a staggering 74 days of access to all communications, images, and plans involving drug trafficking, money laundering, scams, and homicide. “It was like LinkedIn for organized crime,” remarks Matt Horn, principal commander of the UK’s National Crime Agency (not an actor from Gavin & Stacey).

Operation Dark Phone: Murder by Text (Sunday, 9pm, Channel 4) presents a documentary drama that artfully centers around these messages, providing a gripping insight into how criminal enterprises function. Here, “sweets” refer to bullets, while “pineapple” signifies a homemade projectile. A violent British criminal, known for lying low in Spain, orchestrates a corrosive attack on a rival, even while sharing images of his breakfast: sliced cucumber with paprika—quite the culinary juxtaposition. The advised trick is to ensure the victim can’t reach the sink, allowing the acid to do its grim work. Not so appetizing.

The show is steeped in remarkably dark humor, largely courtesy of usernames like “Click” on an anonymous platform. Names like “Mystical Steaks,” “Worthy Bridges,” and “Top Shags” contain the absurdity akin to Chris Morris’s work. At one point, an agent describes interactions with the user “Livelong” and “Ball-Sniffer,” assuming the latter’s lowly status. Agents in their respective fields navigate through a thrilling narrative. Typically, they handle fewer than 100 explicit life threats in a year, yet during this operation, they intercepted over 150 in just six weeks. Logistically, that poses a challenge.

The show excels in captivating its audience. The narrative arc introduces well-developed characters and builds tension towards a crescendo. “Ace-Prospect” is seen importing firearms into the UK, while “Livelong” seeks revenge against him. Neither side, connected through intermediaries, knows the identity of the opposing party. The NCA faces a time crunch, often receiving message data a full day late, leading to a relentless race against time. A dilemma arises when an Ace-Prospect hitman mistakenly delivers a “pineapple” to a rival’s garden without it detonating—how do they safeguard the lives of nearby children while upholding their covert mission?

This narrative is far more enticing than traditional Crimewatch formats. Rather than petty criminals, it presents affluent players orchestrating offenses from afar. Is it ethical? Is there a risk of glamorizing crime? The visual portrayal evokes leisure, showcasing luxurious pools, gym-toned physiques, and cinematic weapons. The actor portraying Livelong bears a striking resemblance to Claes Bang and often appears shirtless. Nevertheless, beneath the surface, it’s a moral tale. The text echoes horrifying fantasies: “I’ll take his eyes out and chase him around all the prisons,” reminiscent of an acid-infused nightmare.

The allure lies not just in the medium but in the underlying message. The downfall of these criminals stems from superficial behavior, incessant sharing, and physical vanity driven by social media pride. Livelong’s identity is ultimately exposed when he posts a triumphant selfie. Just imagine an old-school criminal’s disbelief at this premise; I envision them slapping their foreheads, only to forget to release their fists and knock themselves out.

The criticism leveled at the series arises from the realization that this isn’t mere dramatization—it’s grounded in reality. Part of the critique stems from fear—a reminder to us that there exist individuals who trivialize their lives and revel in violence. Operation Dark Phone is a four-part documentary series providing a harrowing glimpse into police operations, promising even more astounding revelations as the story unfolds. If your faith in humanity feels shaken, you might want to skip this one. Just in case, you might want to avoid supermarket pineapples too.