In a strategic move to upgrade their arsenal, Gujarat police have acquired at least 200 non-lethal taser guns. The new acquisitions will help the police handle potentially violent crowds during rallies, protests, or instances of civil unrest with relative efficiency. The decision to adopt these guns follows a successful trial period involving 25 units, which were rigorously tested over a span of two and a half years.
Sources said, the Gandhinagar Director General of Police (DGP) office has officially confirmed the distribution of these advanced tools across important districts like Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot.
Till now cops mostly rely on batons or sticks to manage unruly crowds during protests and rallies in the state. However, these conventional methods have often proven to be insufficient, particularly when dealing with individuals who are armed.
An official said, “The state’s police apparatus has been contemplating the integration of non-lethal weaponry for a considerable duration.” Continuing his explanation, he elaborated, “Approximately three years ago, we opted to introduce taser guns. In the initial phase, we acquired 25 American-made taser guns for experimental purposes. Following their effective deployment, including instances involving the Chief Minister’s Security and the Chetak Commandos, their merit became evident.”
With the 2024 elections on the horizon, another senior police officer highlighted the significance of these taser guns in maintaining public order, particularly during processions, protests, and rallies. “Taser guns have the potential to be invaluable assets in upholding order,” he emphasised. “In light of this, we have invested in an additional 200 taser guns, each amounting to approximately Rs 2 lakh. These units will primarily serve our officers stationed in major cities such as Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, and Rajkot.”
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