Training Programme Boosts Armed Policing 

Turks and Caicos, June 20, 2025 – The International Policing Assistance Service (IPAS) is currently delivering a comprehensive eight-week ‘Train-the-Trainer’ programme to police officers from Caribbean British Overseas Territories, marking a significant step in enhancing armed policing capacity across the region.

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) has deployed two officers from its Tactical Unit to undertake the training.

The first phase of the programme, which concluded on 20 June, focused on Armed Response Vehicle (ARV) tactics.

ARVs are deployed in situations involving suspected firearms or threats to life, and the training aims to equip officers with advanced tactical skills in high-risk vehicle encounters.

Participants are learning de-escalation techniques, safe suspect extraction methods, and detention procedures that prioritize officer safety and operational control.

This training is delivered by the UK Home Office’s Firearms Subject Matter Experts, supported by National Firearms Instructors from Police Scotland and Greater Manchester Police. Their expertise ensures the training aligns with the highest UK policing standards while being tailored to the unique operational environments of the Overseas Territories.

Developed in collaboration with Police Commissioners across the British Overseas Territories, this initiative is part of a broader effort to standardize firearms training and operational capabilities across the region.

Officers from Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Montserrat, and the Turks and Caicos Islands are participating in this programme, with the goal of returning to their home forces as certified trainers.

Superintendent Jason James, head of the RT&CIPF Strategic Operations, stated, “The provision of Armed Response Vehicles is an essential element of public safety across the Overseas Territories.

“By undertaking this training through a sustainable train-the-trainer model (funded by the UK Government), it will assist in our aim to build safer, more resilient communities across the TCI. This initiative strengthens not only individual officer capability but also regional collaboration, creating a unified and cohesive armed policing framework, whilst ensuring that tactics and procedures are adapted to the local environment.”