Bancada RN asks the government to expand the use of Taser pistols in Carabineros and accelerate regulations for municipal security

The Chilean opposition party Renovación Nacional (RN) has formally requested the government to expand the use of Taser guns within the National Police (Carabineros) and expedite the regulatory framework allowing their deployment by municipal security officers. The request was made through an official letter sent to the Minister of Public Security, Martin Arrau, by a group of RN lawmakers including Diego Schalper, Eduardo Durán, Claudia Mora, and Ximena Ossandón. The document outlines the need to extend the current pilot program for using Taser devices in domestic violence cases to other areas of police work. According to the letter, frontline officers frequently encounter situations involving individuals who are armed or pose a threat to others, creating a gap between the use of physical force and the deployment of firearms. The lawmakers argue that Tasers could help bridge this gap, offering a non-lethal alternative that reduces risks to both officers and civilians. The lawmakers emphasized the importance of establishing clear protocols, mandatory training, traceability of each procedure, oversight mechanisms, and accountability systems before expanding Taser usage. They also called for the Ministry of Public Security to provide updates on existing plans, projected measures for increasing device availability, and any legal or regulatory changes required to enable municipal security inspectors to use such tools. In addition to expanding Taser access, the RN delegation urged the government to accelerate the drafting of regulations that would allow municipal security personnel to employ electric pulse weapons or other defense tools under the Municipal Security Law. This move comes amid growing municipal involvement in preventive and supportive security tasks, which the lawmakers say necessitates better-equipped officers. The letter highlights the increasing role of local authorities in public safety initiatives and underscores the need for them to have appropriate tools to handle high-risk scenarios effectively. It also calls for transparency regarding the progress being made in developing these new regulations and the steps planned to enhance officer capabilities. The request reflects broader concerns over police preparedness and the balance between law enforcement authority and civilian protection. While the government has not yet responded publicly, the initiative signals a push for more robust equipment and clearer guidelines for police operations. The situation will likely remain under scrutiny as officials consider how best to address the demands raised by the opposition.