Known as the Operational Support Group (OSG), Suffolk Constabulary's firearms team go through a vigorous selection process and training regime in order to attain and then maintain their place as one of the 40 core officers of the unit.
These men and women are frequently re-examined and must pass regular tests both physical and mental at a very high level in order to maintain their classification as an Authorised Firearms Officer (AFO) and when selected, to ensure their position in the OSG.
The Constabulary also has a separate specialist Rifle Team which is also made up of AFO's.
The weapons currently used by officers include the Glock 17 self loading pistol, the MP5 Carbine, the TMR1 762mm rifle the Heckler and Koch 556 mm rifle and the Remington pump action shotgun.
A recent addition is the Heckler and Koch Baton gun. Officers are now receiving training in the use of this weapon, which fires a 'plastic baton round' and provides officers with a less lethal option. It is anticipated that this training will be completed by the 1 May 2002.
The authority to issue firearms rests with an officer of the rank of Superintendent or above.
Any incident, which necessitates the attendance of armed officers, whether pre-planned or spontaneous, is commanded by an officer of Inspector or above who is specifically trained to do so.
The commander is supported by a Firearms Tactical Advisor. Tactical advisors are all officers from our Firearms Training department who are experienced AFO's and trained in all aspects of firearms training at National centres.
Inspector Clive Benneworth is one of Suffolk's Tactical Advisors, he also has overall responsibility for the ongoing training of AFO's and Commanders.
When asked what causes the most problems for firearms officers Clive responded; "The irresponsible use of imitation weapons, replicas, blank firers, BB guns and air weapons is the issue which causes us the greatest concern on a day to day basis."
"We regularly receive reports from members of the public who have seen these weapons openly displayed or used in an inappropriate manner and we have to react to the information we are given. You cannot differentiate between these and a conventional firearm."
"It is perhaps worth noting that some air weapons are actually classified as Section 1 Firearms and can be just a lethal as conventional weapons.
"Something as innocent as child's plastic imitation gun left in the back seat of a car can cause alarm. I would urge responsible members of the public to encourage their children, relatives or friends to use air weapons safely and in a controlled environment and of course in accordance with the law. Imitation firearms should not be used, or left, in public view."
"Remember we have a duty to respond to these reports, but our weapons are real."
