Pilots of Riot Control Equipment for the Mobile Unit This Year

The Chief of Police always aims to respond proportionally to escalating violence. To protect bystanders, well-meaning demonstrators, and police colleagues to the fullest extent, we need more options for riot control equipment. We want to respond proportionally: no more intervention than necessary. Sometimes colleagues are so pressured that they must consider using firearms because no lighter riot control tools are available.

Responsible and Quick

Mobile Unit officers will receive larger cans of pepper spray as soon as possible. Water cannons can be filled with a mixture of water and tear-inducing substances once the software is updated. The police are consulting with mayors about the responsible and rapid use of riot control equipment.

Pilots 2026

The police have long been seeking additional options to tackle extreme violence. The pilots starting this year stem from this. Next year, the police want to explore other tools. The police leadership has requested approval from the Minister of Justice and Security in a letter. The Central Works Council and Police Unions are involved in the further process.

For the water cannons, next year will involve trials with substances that also cause tearing and an exploration of the use of dye. Another exploration will assess whether it is desirable and feasible to conduct further trials with air pressure weapons with non-penetrating projectiles. In all cases, it will be examined whether the tools are proportional and effective and what the legal and ethical considerations are.

Safety

The police always try to prevent having to intervene with force. For example, they consult with demonstration organizers. They maintain contact with participants and ensure good information positioning. Force is only used when truly necessary.
If riots do break out, for the safety of citizens and police officers, the priority is to keep violent offenders at a distance and stop dangerous behavior (such as setting off fireworks). Where possible, suspects will be arrested. This can involve individuals or groups. The most suitable and effective tool depends on the goal and situation.

Mandate

Meanwhile, the police are consulting with mayors about the responsible and rapid use of riot control equipment. Tools such as tear gas and water cannons are essential to timely control disorder and limit further violence. To prevent more severe violence and serious injury, it is necessary to be able to decide on deployment very quickly.