Chief constable defends visibility of armed officers following public concern

Russ Foster says forward-facing firearms capability reflects risk assessment

The chief constable of the Isle of Man Constabulary has defended the visibility of armed officers in public places after concerns were raised on Manx Radio’s Mannin Line.

Russ Foster was responding to a caller who questioned whether armed officers were being deployed in situations where they were not required.

The caller said it was “concerning” to see officers carrying assault rifles in close proximity to members of the public, particularly when other options such as PAVA spray, TASERs and batons are available.

Concerns were also raised about the potential consequences of a firearms discharge and the use of face coverings by officers.

Mr Foster insists the Isle of Man has always had armed police officers, but acknowledges they were previously “not as forward facing” as they are today.

Explaining that upon taking up his post, he commissioned a review examining incidents on the Island and in neighbouring jurisdictions where he believed responses had been inadequate.

He argues the Island has a high proportion of individuals with firearms and a significant number of people experiencing mental health difficulties, adding that serious incidents seen elsewhere could also occur on the Island, pointing to organised crime groups with access to guns.

The chief constable stresses that officers seen carrying firearms are primarily response officers, with lethal and tactical capabilities forming part of their equipment rather than their sole function.

On face coverings, Mr Foster says anonymity is necessary to protect officers and their families. While he acknowledges there have been no such incidents locally, he claims in other jurisdictions organised crime groups have identified firearms officers and issued threats. In a small community, he believes identification could happen quickly.

He also says officers need to be able to safeguard police vehicles containing firearms or less-lethal equipment when away from them. He adds if an armed officer is “in Tesco, getting their lunch” and “god forbid a robbery is taking place”, they must be in a position to respond immediately.

Concluding, Mr Foster accepted his comments may attract criticism but insists his explanation is based on evidence and operational assessment.