Oduahgate: Montreal Police showcases Similiar Armoured Car Valued At $360,000
Montreal police have revealed a $360,000 armoured vehicle which is the newest part of their Arsenal, a weapon they say has been in development for the past 11 years.
The armoured vehicle, which is similar to a Bullion van, was exhibited on Wednesday when reporters were invited to get a closer look. The Police say it was designed to allow officers to use less force when negotiating with someone threatening to use weapons.
The commander of the Montreal force’s SWAT team, Francois Houle, told newsmen that the grey-coloured vehicle will be used primarily to protect officers against armed suspects, who may be involved in situations like hostage-takings. He said it could be used to protect an injured citizen or a police officer who is trying to get inside a perimeter where a person is using firearms.
He also added that other major police forces in Canada including the Quebec provincial police and municipal forces in Quebec City, Ottawa and Vancouver have similar mobile barricade which can resist attack from projectiles but didn’t give precise details about its capabilities.
When asked whether it would be used in demonstrations similar to the massive protests carried out by students last year, the SWAT boss replied that it would only be used where protection from ballistic weapons is required.
It will be recalled that two of similar vehicle was bought at N225million by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Agency, NCAA, for the use of Princess Stella Oduah, Minister of Aviation. Questions have been asked over the reasons given for the purchase of the vehicles and the price stated.
