Punjab to get modern weaponry,constitute six commando units

“A three-member purchase committee has been formed by the state police and it is expected that by March next year the weapons will be bought through a global tender. It is expected to cost around Rs 1 crore,” revealed an officer.

The state has decided to form six SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics Team) commando police units for special operations,one team each at the range level.

Each team will have 100 personnel who will further be divided into two teams — external and attack teams. These teams will be given 9 mm sub machine guns (MP 5),AK 47 and assault rifles of 7.62 and 5.56 calibre,besides bullet-proof jackets,latest wireless communication system and pistols.

Also,at the platoon level,corner shot guns — the gun tilts itself,making it possible to shoot in different directions without changing posture — spinner guns and under barrel grenade launchers will be provided to the personnel.

Thermal imagers will also be given to the state police,making it easier to detect enemy positions.

“Besides the SWAT teams,the same weaponry will also be given to the chief minister’s security personnel,” said an officer.

Sources said,in a meeting held on Monday,DGP P S Gill invited suggestions for a name for the SWAT squads.

‘Won’t sell Punjab weapons,it’s a disturbed state’
A senior officer said many European governments have said no to selling weapons to Punjab Police,as a large number of Punjabi migrants have taken asylum in their countries saying Punjab is a disturbed state.

“There is a problem in securing weapons from countries like Germany and Italy. Many Punjabi people have taken asylum in these countries on the pretext that Punjab is a disturbed state. Now we have approached Israel ,USA and Switzerland,” said an official.