CELTIC LEAGUE: UN CONCERN OVER UK POLICE USE OF 'NON LETHAL' WEAPON
The United Nations Human Rights Committee, meeting in Geneva earlier this month, has expressed concern about the use of Attenuating Energy Projectiles by UK police and armed forces. The missiles were introduced to replace plastic bullets used extensively in Northern Ireland following the withdrawal of the equally deadly and dangerous rubber bullets. It is also now deployed to police forces throughout the United Kingdom.
At the time of the introduction of AEPs the Celtic League questioned the wisdom of the move (see below) and lodged a complaint with the United Nations.
It is heartening that the UN has finally recognised the potential for death and injury the use of this deadly weapon poses. It is not the 'non lethal alternative' the United Kingdom government portray it as. In that context it is disappointing that the UN HRC have failed to call for an outright ban on AEPs.
The section of the HRC report is set out below:
"11. The Committee is concerned with the use of Attenuating Energy Projectiles (AEPs) by police and army forces since 21 June 2005 and emerging medical evidence that they may cause serious injuries. (art.6)
The State party should closely monitor the use of Attenuating Energy Projectiles (AEPs) by police and army forces and consider banning such use if it is established that AEPs can cause serious injuries."
Report on injuries caused by the attenuated energy projectiles used in N. Ireland here:
Related articles on Celtic News at:
J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League
30/07/08
■