NINETY-THREE ranks of Police Division No. 3 have completed a two-week training programme on the use of stun guns, as the Guyana Police Force continues to strengthen its capacity to employ less-lethal options during confrontations.
The training was conducted from September 8 to 18, 2026, at the Den Amstel Police Station Conference Room on the West Coast of Demerara and was facilitated by ranks attached to the Tactical Services Unit (TSU).
The programme focused on the safe and proper handling and application of stun guns, including practical demonstrations, operational procedures and the Standard Operating Procedures governing their use.
The training comes as the force continues to place greater emphasis on graduated use-of-force measures and the professional application of less-lethal equipment.
The GPF has previously said stun guns, or Tasers, are intended to provide ranks with an option between physical confrontation and the use of firearms, in circumstances where force is necessary. Amendments to the Police Act in 2021 formally provided for the use of various less-lethal weapons, including conducted electrical weapons such as tasers and stun guns.
The force has also established guidance requiring ranks to consider the circumstances of an encounter and apply the appropriate level of force. At its 2026 Annual Sergeants’ Conference, police officers received instruction on the Use of Force Continuum, including the graduated application of less-lethal options such as tasers.
The importance of training and adherence to established procedures has also been emphasised by senior police officials. In 2025, Traffic Chief Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh said tasers should be regarded as a last resort and that ranks must follow the Standard Operating Procedures governing their use.
The Guyana Police Force’s own training and occupational-safety guidelines similarly emphasise lawful use of force, de-escalation, conflict resolution and scenario-based training when preparing ranks for operational duties.
For the 93 ranks in Division No. 3, the latest training provided both theoretical instruction and practical exposure aimed at ensuring they understand the operational requirements associated with stun guns.
The initiative forms part of the division’s continuing efforts to improve operational readiness, professional development and the safe management of situations in which less-lethal force may be required.
It also reinforces the force’s stated emphasis on modern policing techniques and equipping ranks with appropriate tools and training to perform their duties while operating within established legal and operational guidelines.
