The issuing of electrical shock taser guns to Police officers is a possibility, even though it has not been discussed at ministerial level.

However, it is a better although expensive option – given the rise in violent robberies of late.

The comments were made by Police Commissioner Ben Groenewald at the opening of the newly-renovated Labasa Police Station yesterday.

Commissioner Groenewald said he had not made a submission on the issue yet to Defence Minister Timoci Natuva.

He has, however, ruled out the issuing of firearms to Police officers.

The move for the usage of taser guns follows a series of recent robberies involving attacks on Police officers by criminal elements.

The attacks have raised public concern about the safety of Police officers while on duty.

“No, unfortunately up until now I have not had the opportunity to speak to the minister and it is only one of the future possibilities. It’s not to say we will be using tasers,” Commissioner Groenewald said.

He also said when used on an individual, their sensory nerves and motor nerves would experience shock, resulting in uncontrolled muscle tightening.

He said this would give Police time to arrest perpetrators.

“We use it from where I come from and it is being used in most countries in the world as a non-lethal weapon.”

He said it was unfortunately fairly expensive.

“But at this stage I do not foresee that in the near future we will be in a position to buy any of these taser guns. We will also see to other propositions in terms of empowering our people in arresting.

“We do have our own firearms, but we do not have any idea at this stage to arm them. Yes if there are special occasions we can arm them and they are trained in the use of firearms.”

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