Changes to TFU Handbook - SEPTEMBER 2025 - RTFO and Policy Updates
This policy will outline the expectations and regulations of members of the Tactical Firearms Unit.
2.1 TFU Equipment may only be shared with personnel who are wearing the required TFU gear and hold the required ranks and certifications to access it.
2.2 Sniper rifles (e.g., the M24, L115A3 and M82) must not be used in close-quarters battle (CQB), except in immediate defence of life where switching to a sidearm is not viable. TFU Members must avoid entering CQB with a sniper drawn.
2.3 The armoured TFU Van must not be used for routine patrol.
2.4 The armoured TFU Van may only be used for:
Transporting TFU personnel or extracting individuals from hostile situations
Providing mobile cover
Forming roadblocks
2.5 The armoured TFU Van may only be used as a weapon to prevent imminent loss of life.
2.6 Officers in TFU gear may not drive or be a passenger in either an unmarked vehicle or the Mercedes SL65 AMG unless necessary due to a life-threatening situation
2.7 The BearCat may only be used by geared-up TFOs, unless required to preserve life during an emergency.
2.8 A maximum of three TFOs may be wearing TFU Gear at any one time without a firearms incident occurring.
2.9 TFOs in TFU Gear must downgrade or return their TFU Gear if ordered to do so by a Dispatcher.
2.10 The 2012 Range Rover may only be driven by officers who are qualified TFOs, unless required to preserve life during an emergency. Officers who do not hold any TFO certification may only drive this vehicle if under the direct supervision of a qualified TFTO or TFIC.
2.11 Officers in TFU gear must follow the “chain of command” structure highlighted in the handbook.
3.1 TFOs in Heavy Gear may not patrol unless authorised by a Tactical Firearms Command member or a supervisor ranked Major or higher.
3.2 TFOs in Heavy Gear must remain at the Police Department unless deployed by a Supervisor or the highest-ranking officer on duty, or when responding to a confirmed firearms incident.
3.3 TFOs in Heavy Gear may not deploy to minor or low-risk incidents, such as traffic incidents or prisoner transport.
3.4 A maximum of two TFOs may wear Heavy Gear at any one time without a firearms incident occurring.
4.1 TFOs in Light Gear are authorised to conduct regular patrols and respond to all types of incidents, including non-violent crimes, but must prioritise firearms-related incidents and threats to life above all other calls.
4.2 TFOs in Light Gear may only patrol with officers ranked Officer or above.
4.3 A maximum of three TFOs may be wearing Light Gear at any one time without a firearms incident occurring.
4.4 TFOs in Light Gear may not utilise gear that is not available to them via the armoury, except for the Remington M24 in the trunk of their Range Rover.