Russia grants bailiffs broad powers to use firearms in new law

The Russian State Duma has passed a bill authorizing all law enforcement officers to use physical force, special means, and firearms in specific situations. This means a bailiff can use a stun gun, handcuffs, or even a firearm when necessary. Special rules have been established.

The Duma representatives have been working on this document since April. The deputies first accepted the initial proposal in May, and then it was supplemented with the law "On Forced Organs of the Russian Federation." Consequently, the plenary session proceeded quickly, and the document will soon come into effect.

As reported by "The Moscow Times," bailiffs and law enforcement officers will have the right to use firearms to protect judges, trial participants, witnesses, and citizens, as well as colleagues, if they are victims of an attack involving life-threatening or health-threatening violence.

Firearms can be used to prevent an escape from custody, seize weapons from law enforcement officers, and in the event of a group or armed attack on courts and law enforcement buildings. Additionally, bailiffs can use firearms to detain a person caught committing a serious crime and attempting to escape if there is no other way to stop them.

Besides firearms, they will be able to use rubber batons, handcuffs, tear gas, or stun guns. A bailiff must warn the citizen each time about the intention to use force, weapons, and special equipment.

The law prohibits the use of firearms against pregnant women, people with obvious signs of disability, and minors. An exception is made for individuals in these categories who offer armed resistance or engage in a collective attack that endangers the lives and health of citizens or bailiffs.

The employee is not liable for damages caused to citizens and organizations during the use of weapons or special equipment if they were used in accordance with the law - Russian media report.

At least once a year, law enforcement employees undergo special training concerning their fitness for these activities. If they decide to use a firearm, they must assist the injured person and then notify the prosecutor's office and their superiors.