Police trained to use device which shoots rope that wraps around suspects to restrain them

The police have been trained to use the BolaWrap, which is a device which is used to shoot a rope which wraps around a suspect to restrain them.

In a statement, the police said that the rope can be fired from a distance of three to eight metres, and that it should be aimed at the legs or the arms with the aim of immobilising the person immediately.

It further clarified that the BolaWrap was not a weapon, but that it could be seen as being a “remote handcuff”, which could be used to “keep individuals safe before the situation escalates.”

“The BolaWrap is not a weapon, nor is it designed to cause pain to stop someone.”

Police stationed with the Rapid Intervention Unit (RIU) and those at Mater Dei Hospital were given specialized training, and are now certified to be able to use the BolaWrap.

The police said that sometimes police officers have to deal with people who don’t obey orders, even though they might not be violent. It said that these individuals could be emotionally disturbed, have mental health issues or are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

Inspector Raymond Azzopardi led the training sessions for BolaWrap.

“One of the main advantages of the BolaWrap is its ease of use. It requires minimal training and it can be used quickly, which is important for situations where time is of the essence. Having a tool that is easy to use helps our officers to stop a suspect effectively and safely. Another advantage of the BolaWrap is its versatility. It can be used in several situations, where other devices cannot be used”, Azzopardi said.

Kevin Mullins, the CEO of WRAP Technologies, Inc. said : “I am happy to welcome the Malta Police Force to the WRAP family.”

“It’s really inspiring to see the number of European countries that embrace innovative technologies such as BolaWrap 150 always grow. This is an alternative tool for law enforcement officers to prevent or defuse potentially dangerous situations. This step shows the commitment of the Malta Police Force, which constantly improves its methods and gives priority to the well-being of Maltese citizens.”