Hungary’s police weapons useless against terrorists?

Second degree terrorism alert has been issued in Hungary in the wake of the Brussels blasts on March 22. Alfahir.hu reports on the quality and effectiveness of the weapons with which the patrolling police officers are armed.

The main claims against the weapons are that they are either outdated or not suitable for the task at hand. The only groups that possess advanced and up-to-date weaponry are the units of the Hungarian counter-terrorism force TEK.

The police officers patrolling the streets, underpasses and metros carry the following weapons: Pa-63, P9RC, and AMD-65.

Many police officers use the Pa-63 as a service weapon. It is the Hungarian replica of the German Walther PP (Polizeipistole), and its production began in the ’60s. Its main flaw, besides its outdated construction, is the size of its magazine: it only carries 7 bullets.

The P9RC was manufactured in the ’90s to replace the Pa-63. In most aspects it outperforms its predecessor, but the quality of production is said to be inconsistent, and the aim of the pistol is often inadequate.

The patrolling officers are also carrying AMD-65 assault rifles. These military grade weapons might serve the purpose of deterrence and assuring the general public. Their ammunition, however, is incredibly strong; bullets fired from close range can penetrate a 10 centimetre thick concrete wall. A weapon of this quality most likely cannot be fired in crowded public places without risking civilian lives.

As a conclusion, alfahir.hu highlights the necessary and urgent task of upgrading the weapons of the police so that their effectiveness can match the weight of the situation.

Copy editor: bm

Source: alfahir.hu