IACP Recommends Head Shots for Suicide Bombers
The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) has produced a report recommending taking out suspected suicide bombers with a shot to the head, changing the common tactic of aiming for the torso. The new tactic was agreed upon to eliminate the danger of cops’ bullets detonating bombs strapped to a terrorist’s chest.
The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) has produced a report recommending taking out suspected suicide bombers with a shot to the head, changing the common tactic of aiming for the torso. The new tactic was agreed upon to eliminate the danger of cops’ bullets detonating bombs strapped to a terrorist’s chest.
Just two weeks after the report was released, London Metropolitan Police used seven shots to the head to kill a man wearing a heavy coat in the London Underground who they mistakenly believed to be a suicide bomber. The man, Brazilian electrician Jean Charles de Menezes, was later found to be innocent. The incident occurred the day after three people tried to blow up three Tube trains and a bus in London.
While many civilians worried about the Metro’s use of the “shoot-to-kill” policy in the aftermath of de Menezes’ death, the IACP’s report shows agreement from international law enforcement officials on the tactic to deal with the current terrorist threat.
The report details ways to identify suicide bombers, with such signs as heavy clothing, walking with an unusual gait, or evident irritability, sweating, or tunnel vision.
Guidelines in the report state, “If lethal force is justified, all shots should be aimed at a bomber’s head – specifically, at the tip of the nose when facing the bomber, at the point of the ear canal from the side, or about one inch below the base of the skull from behind.”
More Patrol

Streamlight to Showcase Newest Lighting Products at National Safety Council’s Safety Congress & Expo 2026
Streamlight will showcase its latest lights, including the Portable Scene Light III and the LiteBox 1Million, at the 2026 National Safety Council (NSC) Safety Congress & Expo.
Read More →
The 2027 World Police & Fire Games Set for Perth, Australia
The 2027 World Police & Fire Games (WPFG) will take place in Perth, Western Australia, from Friday, March 12 through Sunday, March 21, 2027.
Read More →
5.11 Partners with National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to Support #ForThe343
5.11 has joined the nationwide movement honoring the 343 New York City Fire Department firefighters lost on Sept. 11, 2001.
Read More →
Team Wendy Announces Title Sponsorship of the Jorge Pastore Foundation
Team Wendy’s 3-year partnership with the Jorge Pastore Foundation expands access to programs that strengthen those who serve.
Read More →
National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum Hosting 9/11 25th-Year Commemoration Ceremony
The National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum is hosting a 9/11 25th Year Commemoration Ceremony on Sept. 11 at 4 p.m.
Read More →
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Announces June 2026 Officers of the Month
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) named 15 officers of the Chico Police Department (California) as the Officers of the Month for June 2026 for their roles in responding to an active-shooter incident at a public library.
Read More →
Team Wendy App Creates New Digital Hub for Helmet Owners
The Team Wendy Community App provides one location for warranty registration, size-fit tools, product updates, and community connection. For helmet owners, the new app creates a simpler path to the information and tools that matter most.
Read More →
PositionPTT & Pryme Combine Communication Technologies to Deliver Distracted Driving Compliance
Pryme Radio Accessories and hardware/software maker PositionPTT join forces to advance hands-free communications and ensure Department of Transportation compliance using an integrated system of push-to-talk platforms, devices, and audio equipment.
Read More →
Justice Department Releases $25M in Law Enforcement Grants & Resources
The Office of Community Oriented Policing Services has just released $25 million in new grant Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) to support law enforcement. The recently released NOFOs include the Safer Outcomes: Enhancing Crisis Response Training for Law Enforcement Program and other grant programs.
Read More →
What Makes a Laptop Rugged or Fully Rugged?
What separates a rugged laptop from a fully rugged one? In this video, two Panasonic Connect experts explain the military testing, IP ratings, durability standards, and real-world features that help law enforcement officers rely on their computers in any environment.
Read More →