RAF plans to use only non-lethal weapons

The Rapid Action Force (RAF) will use only non-lethal weapons during riot controlling operations, a senior RAF officer said today.
"Though we are currently utilising some non-lethal weapon like chargeable baton but plans are there to use only non-lethal weapons for minimum loss during such operations in the country, said Inspector General of RAF, R N Misra, who was here on four-day visit to take part in functions to be organised by 106 Battalion of RAF.
We have already recommended to the Union Home Ministry for purchase of non-lethal weapons like upgraded version of chargeable baton, long range aquatic device, water mist fire-fighter system, portable laser dazzler and impact resistance shield, Misra told reporters here today.

These weapons would not cause any major harm to people indulging in violent protest or riots but would help to bring the situation well under control soon, the IG said expressing hope that the proposed non-lethal weapons will be available in all units by this year end.
The impact of these weapons would only make people indulging in such anti-social activities stun, invisible for few seconds and help the forces to control the situation fast, he said.
Altogether RAF has ten battalions in the country but the government has plans to create five more battalions, he said, adding that the proposal was under consideration of the concerned ministry.

Asked whether RAF has any plan to create its own intelligence wing, Misra said it already has its own internal intelligence wing.