Line of Duty season 6 ending explained: What happened in the finale?

IN the nail-biting finale it turned out that there wasn't a criminal mastermind pulling everyone's strings for nefarious reasons.

There was no huge conspiracy to control the police - there was just one over-promoted, under-talented and incredibly greedy man - Ian Buckells.

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He used his police knowledge and dodgy connections to link up all the other corrupt officers - and make millions doing so.

While living in his normal semi-detached with his family, Buckells was a bungling detective inspector.

But when he was acting as H he was living it up in a three million pound mansion - and ordering hits on his enemies.

His cover was so secure that even the officers he controlled didn't know who he was - which is why Jo Davidson framed him.

Hastings, Kate and Steve were horrified that H had been under their nose the entire time - and was hiding his massive corruption under his own bungling.

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His mask only slipped when he wanted to humiliate AC-12 as they charged him.

But it backfired when he demanded immunity and a new identity.

Failing to answer their questions would make him ineligible for witness protection - but answering would make him ineligible for immunity from prosecution.

"No-one makes mugs of AC-12," said Hastings as the three finally got their man after six years.

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Later Hastings dropped a bombshell on Carmichael - who had previously tried to free Buckells from prison.

He confessed disclosing the identity of an informant in the OCG - and told her: "Whatever you do, do it because you care about truth and accountability. 

"You do it because you carry the fire."

It was then revealed Terry Boyle had been freed and rehoused by social services, Farida Jatri was also freed and returned to active service and Darren Hunter was arrested.

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Jo was given a new identity and found happiness with a girlfriend and a dog in a country house.

But it was revealed how central police were attempting to stop any evidence of corruption being heard in open court.

It said: "Currently AC-12's powers to curb wrongdoing in public office have never been weaker."