A proposal on the use of force and firearms is being put together to be presented at the annual Police Commissioners conference next month.
Bomana Police Training College Commandant, Perou N’Dranou, says a lot of work has been put into this proposal.
“Ultimately, the aim is to put in a proper firearm policy so that in future, if approved, on an annual basis, an officer is given a permit to possess or use the firearm,” says N’Dranou.
This will allow an officer to possess or carry a firearm, often subject to a number of conditions or restrictions in regard to requirement or the completion of a firearm safety course, as well as background checks.
“Every year, they have to be retrained to be able to attain the possession and use of a firearm.”
By doing so, two things are attained: To increase the police officers’ knowledge and skills in the use of firearm, and to make sure that the force is not liable to any rogue member’s illegal activities relating to the use of firearms.
So far this year, four firearm training programs have been run throughout the country. Two trainings were done in NCD, one in Manus and the fourth is currently being conducted at Kwikila Police Station in Central Province.
“Over 100 police officers have undergone this training.”
Commander N’Dranou is hoping that this firearm proposal is looked at and considered for more training to be done for the officers in future.