CHP Buys Submachine Guns to Match Firepower of Terrorists

The increase in international terrorism has prompted the California Highway Patrol, which has quietly protected dignitaries for more than half a century, to purchase $25,000 worth of submachine guns for use in guarding visiting officials.

Bill Oliver, a CHP personnel and training administrator, said that until recently, “traditional weaponry,” such as revolvers and shotguns, was considered an adequate defense for Highway Patrol officers escorting dignitaries’ motorcades.

“But with the onset of terrorism, we suddenly realized that we are probably underarmed compared to the terrorists,” Oliver said.

To counter possible terrorist attacks on dignitaries who travel through California, the CHP has ordered 35 German-made Heckler & Koch MP5A3 submachine guns, which are similar to the better-known Israeli Uzi submachine gun. The new weapons will soon be issued to “a few highly trained officers” in charge of VIP motorcades, CHP Deputy Commissioner Maury Hannigan said.