New Zealand's COLFO opposes police carrying pistols, citing risks to civilian safety, amid ongoing debate.

The Council of Licenced Firearms Owners (COLFO) opposes the New Zealand Police Association's push for officers to carry pistols, arguing it could lead to more civilian deaths and an arms race. COLFO spokesperson Hugh Devereux-Mack cites examples where armed police have increased violence and injury to civilians. Meanwhile, Police Commissioner Richard Chambers is open to discussions but hopes to avoid routine arming, noting that currently, officers only have access to locked firearms in patrol cars.

November 20, 2024
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