NT Police Association President Nathan Finn demands strengthened police powers, tactical options for cops
The president of the Northern Territory Police Association says it is “only a matter of time” before an officer is killed on duty.
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The president of the Northern Territory Police Association says it is “only a matter of time” before an officer is killed, spruiking calls for the top brass of the force to take action to strengthen police powers and tactical options.
The plea follows a spate of vehicular incidents in recent months, with at least four police cars rammed in the past three months as well as officers being driven at.
It also comes as a response to the growing number of assaults against police this year, as reported by this masthead.
NTPA president Nathan Finn said he had written to the executive leadership of NT Police to accelerate the introduction of vital new measures, including mobile tactical options such as tyre spikes and stop sticks, which could be deployed from inside the car.
He also proposed new vehicle interdiction measures, which, essentially, refer to PIT manoeuvres (as seen in the US) and specialised training similar to the Territory Response Group (TRG).
Mr Finn later suggested the current police vehicles were not appropriate for dealing with the rise in rammings.
“These reckless actions by criminal offenders are becoming more frequent and more dangerous,” he said in a media release.
“At present, our officers are restricted by outdated policies and procedures that limit their ability to stop these hostile vehicles in a timely manner, our members deserve better tactical options to be available.
“For months the NTPA has been advocating for the implementation of more robust tactical measures to safely and effectively handle these escalating threats.
“Unfortunately, despite our repeated calls, no progress has been made.”
Mr Finn said it was crucial action was taken soon to avoid a potential tragedy in the future.
“Our members deserve the tools and training necessary to respond effectively,” he said.
“We cannot afford to wait for a tragedy to occur.
“The introduction of new tactical options, along with enhanced training, is critical to ensuring the safety of everyone in the community.
“Innocent lives are at risk and could be lost if we do not act now.
“We can no longer afford to delay. These measures must be implemented now.”
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