The Metropolitan Regional Government has announced the allocation of 60 Tasers to Chile's Carabineros for a 10-month pilot program. The initiative involves a 250 million peso state investment aimed at strengthening security resources in the capital.
These electronic immobilization devices will serve as a non-lethal force option. The primary goal of the measure is to enable officers to subdue suspects without having to resort to firearms.
The pistols work by delivering an electric shock to the subject. Depending on the specific model, the discharge can last up to five seconds.
During this brief window, the individual is rendered completely immobile, allowing officers to carry out arrests with a reduced risk of physical resistance.
Technology to Reduce Risk
Inspector General Manuel Cifuentes, head of the Carabineros Metropolitan Zone, welcomed the delivery of the new equipment. The high-ranking official noted that the introduction of this technology represents a significant step forward for personnel operating in the area.
"This is a very good day for the Carabineros working in the Metropolitan Zone Headquarters," Cifuentes stated. The officer explained that the new equipment will help inhibit and deter potential aggressors during daily operations.
Cifuentes added that the use of these devices aims to prevent officer injuries. The police commander emphasized that Carabineros officers face frequent and constant interventions that expose them to physical danger every day.
Meanwhile, Metropolitan Governor Claudio Orrego backed the 250 million peso investment in the project. The regional leader highlighted that modernizing resources is key to maintaining public order.
"This will allow Carabineros to be more effective and more responsible in their duty to maintain public order," Orrego said.
The 60 units will be rolled out gradually across various police stations in the capital. The deployment of these non-lethal weapons will allow for an evaluation of the technology's impact on reducing violence during police procedures throughout the region.
