Rubber and plastic bullets too dangerous for crowd control, says study
by Nicola Davis from on (#3B40M)
'Non-lethal' bullets are often inaccurate and have potential to cause death, disability and serious injury, researchers find
Rubber and plastic bullets should not be used for crowd control, researchers have said, pointing out that such weapons are often inaccurate and can cause death, disabilities or severe injuries.
Bullets made of plastic, rubber, or other materials such as metal shot in a fabric bag, are used as a "less lethal" means of crowd control the world over, from the US to India. While they can leave a gun with velocities similar to live ammunition, they are designed to lose speed rapidly, reducing the force of impact. Generally, users are supposed to aim the weapons at individuals' lower limbs.