The gripping drama "Protection" on ITV culminated in a nail-biting finale that left viewers on the edge of their seats, as Detective Inspector Liz Nyles, played by Siobhan Finneran, faced a harrowing web of corruption and personal stakes. Having been thrust into the tumultuous investigation of a family murdered while in witness protection, Liz navigated through intricate layers of organized crime and personal loss that raised serious questions about the integrity of the witness protection unit.
The season kicks off with Liz confronting the chaotic aftermath of the brutal killings, which sends shockwaves through the unit and raises suspicions about the presence of corruption and organized crime influencing the judicial process. As the investigation deepens, Liz wrestles with fears that her own actions might have jeopardized the very case she was striving to protect, especially with the concurrent deaths of her secret lover and two individuals placed under her care, just prior to the much-anticipated trial of drug lord Eddie Crowther.
The series finale unveiled a tragic twist when Eddie Crowther was discovered dead in his prison cell, moments before he was set to divulge critical information to Liz that could have changed the course of the investigation. In a desperate bid for answers, Liz teams up with her colleague Raj to explore the residence of DS Paul Brandice for evidence that could incriminate those responsible for the unfolding chaos. During their search, they stumble upon a hidden USB drive left by Brandice, which contains vital information that may link Intelligence officer Nigel Frankton to the sordid events transpiring around them.
As tensions escalate, Liz is led to Soran Ahmadi, an associate of Crowther’s drug operation in Turkey, who directs her towards an elusive contact within the Kurdish independence movement. However, Liz soon finds herself in peril when she realizes she is being tracked. Her concerns are confirmed when a henchman confronts her, demanding the recovery of the USB stick. In a dramatic turn of events, Raj attempts to intervene but is tragically shot, showcasing the high stakes involved.
With her back against the wall, Liz manages to flee the scene and flags down a lorry driver for help. Meanwhile, Frankton exhibits his menacing influence by threatening Liz with the lives of her father and daughter, insisting they meet at a predetermined location to settle the matter connected to the incriminating USB drive. This threatening arrangement unwraps a chilling narrative where Frankton manipulates situations to maintain his grip on power and conceal pivotal truths about British foreign policy missions masked in Crowther’s drug dealings.
However, the climax approaches as armed police, led by DCI Wheatley, storm the safe house. An intense confrontation ensues between Liz and Frankton, who demands control of the USB drive at all costs. Just as the powerful confrontation unfolds, police burst in to thwart Frankton’s lethal intentions, rescuing Liz from the brink of tragedy.
The underlying web of deceit continues to unfold as DCI Amanda Kelman, who has complex ties within the story, confesses to Liz that she leaked crucial details about the witness interview due to national security fears. Kelman admits collaborating with high-ranking intelligence officers, effectively complicating Liz’s quest for truth and justice.
In the wake of these confrontations, Liz attends Brandice’s funeral, grappling with the emotional weight of revelations regarding their relationship. While searching through his belongings, she discovers signed divorce papers, suggesting that Brandice had intentions of leaving his wife for her—a hint at a deeper connection than previously understood. Moreover, DI Rick Bewley divulges that the information Brandice had collected was obtained before their romantic involvement, offering Liz a bittersweet solace amidst the chaos.
After the dramatic and emotionally charged conclusion of "Protection," fans are left contemplating the complexities of loyalty, betrayal, and the often unseen ramifications of investigative work. The show masterfully intertwines themes of personal sacrifice and professional integrity, encapsulating Liz's compelling journey against a backdrop of corruption and danger. As viewers prepare to dissect the season, it's evident that Liz Nyles's story is far from over, leaving a palpable anticipation for what future twists and turns await her.
"Protection" airs on Sundays and Mondays at 9 PM, with the entire series available for streaming on ITVX, offering fans an opportunity to delve deep into this intricately woven tale.
