British Transport Police Go First: Special Constables to Carry Tasers
British Transport Police (BTP) has made a bold move. For the first time ever, Special Constabulary officers in England and Wales will be equipped with Tasers. From today, Friday 27 May, some BTP Specials will patrol the rail network armed with the stun guns to boost safety for the public, rail staff, and themselves.
Why Are Specials Getting Tasers?
The introduction of Tasers comes as BTP faces growing threats—from terrorism to public disorder on the railway. Specials often work in isolated spots, far from back-up, making non-lethal options like Tasers crucial.
“Our Specials face the same risks as regular officers,” says Special Chief Officer Ben Clifford. “Arming them with Tasers not only recognises their skills but strengthens safety for passengers and rail workers.”
Training and Commitment
- 22 Specials have completed intensive three-day Taser training alongside regular officers.
- Approximately one-third of BTP officers are Taser trained.
- Specials work at least 16 hours a month, tackling incidents alongside regular officers across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Specials: The Backbone of Rail Policing
These volunteers hold the same powers as full-time officers and are vital to frontline policing. The force currently employs 270 Specials, many of whom have served over 20 years. In 2021 alone, Specials clocked over 100,000 hours to keep the railways and communities safe.
BTP’s trailblazing move to arm Specials with Tasers marks a major step in modern policing on Britain’s rails, aiming to deter crime and protect the public with smarter, safer tools.
