Austria is considering adopting the Taser electro-shock weapon across its entire police force after trials in three high-crime areas of Vienna. Around 70 Taser units will be procured initially, with plans to equip every officer in the country if successful. The decision comes as part of a broader push to modernize the equipment of the Austrian police, according to federal police chief Michael Takacs.
Despite previous hesitation due to reports of deaths related to electro-shocking, the potential adoption of the Taser is not due to increased violence between migrant gangs in the country, but rather to enhance police capabilities. Special units like WEGA and EKO have been using the weapon since 2012 and there are currently 700 units in use.
Former WEGA commander Ernst Albrecht believes the Taser could be useful in certain situations, such as when dealing with individuals who may harm themselves. He emphasized that the Taser is not a “wonder weapon” but a tool that requires intensive training for proper use.
If the trials in Vienna prove successful, Austria could purchase up to 34,000 Tasers for its police force. The potential adoption of the Taser represents a significant step in the country’s efforts to modernize law enforcement methods and equipment, ensuring the safety of both officers and citizens in challenging situations.
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