Pneumatic Needle Revolver Stirs up Controversy in Germany's Security Sphere
Interior Ministry Prepares Weapons Prior to Bundestag Vote Evaluation
Taking a closer look at the potential dangers of a brand new pneumatic needle revolver, authorities ran tests at the Federal Ministry of the Interior. This test, involving the revolver's needles penetrating a soap block and a protective vest, underscored the worrying repercussions of this weapon, according to Alexander Dobrindt (CSU), Federal Minister of the Interior. In his view, no one in their right mind would be granted approval to use this revolver due to its inherent risks.
Parliament to Weigh In
Tonight's session at the Bundestag will cover an amendment to the Weapons Act, with a focus on making the needle revolver subject to a permit requirement. If not for this amendment, such a weapon would be readily available for purchase, as Dobrindt emphasized.
With recent advancements in weapon technology, compressed air weapons—capable of imparting a kinetic energy of no more than 7.5 Joules to projectiles—are now also capable of firing potentially lethal projectiles, according to the Interior Ministry.
Weapon Ownership: Reliability and Need
In Germany, the process to obtain a permit for possessing a gun requires an examination of the owner's character, expertise, and suitability, as well as a demonstrated "need" to own a weapon. For example, hunters or sport shooters might fulfill this need. A small weapons permit permits carrying blank-firing, irritant, and signal weapons in public spaces.
Dobrindt also showcased the impact of so-called Tasers, which he plans to equip the Federal Police with in the near future. A legal amendment is currently being debated within the federal government to allow for this.
Tasers: Approved Budget and Controversies
According to the Federal Ministry of the Interior, 2,000 distance electro-shock devices are set to be procured this year. Yet, these devices have sparked controversy. From the Federal Police's perspective, they bridge the gap between firearms and batons. However, critics like Daniela Behrens (SPD), Interior Minister of Lower Saxony, have questioned the wisdom of deploying more such devices. The Left Party also expressed criticism.
The Police Trade Union advocates for nationwide deployment. Its federal chairman, Jochen Kopelke, reminded us that often, merely threatening with the device suffices. Yet, there are instances where both a distance electro-shock device and a firearm might be employed. (dpa)
[Enrichment Insight]As no specific, relevant data concerning the amendment to the German Weapons Act regarding needle revolvers can be found in current available records, it would prove beneficial to consult official German government or Bundesministerium des Innern (Federal Ministry of the Interior) sources or specialized legal updates for the most up-to-date and accurate information on this topic.
The Bundestag will discuss an amendment to the Weapons Act, focusing on making the needle revolver subject to a permit requirement, as it falls under the category of compressed air weapons capable of firing potentially lethal projectiles, a concern raised by the Federal Ministry of the Interior.
Politicians are divided on the issue of Tasers, with some, like Daniela Behrens (SPD), questioning their deployment, while others, such as Jochen Kopelke from the Police Trade Union, advocate for their nationwide use, citing instances where threatening with the device is sufficient and instances where both a Taser and a firearm might be employed.
