Heavily armed police surrounded a home Thursday as they searched for a U.S. Army reservist who authorities say killed 18 people and wounded 13 in a mass shooting.
British police are unusual in not being routinely armed, but every force has a specialist firearms unit ready to assist their colleagues when required. They are essential for the protection of the public and to back up operations against terrorists and armed gangs. These experienced officers undergo rigorous training and are often required to make life and death decisions in trying circumstances.
A former police chief has warned armed officers are relying on “wild west” tactics to catch the country’s most dangerous criminals and questioned whether a review by Suella Braverman would be effective.