The True Impact of Rubber Bullets: A Comprehensive Analysis

The use of rubber bullets by law enforcement agencies has long been a contentious topic in the realm of public safety and human rights. This article delves into the extensive research on rubber bullets to understand the extent of the injury they can cause, focusing on a longitudinal study involving nearly two thousand individuals.

Longitudinal Study on Rubber Bullets

A comprehensive study involving 1984 individuals who were victims of rubber bullets was conducted, with injury data collected from 1st January 1990 until 1st June 2017. The study revealed alarming statistics: 53 individuals sustained fatal injuries, and 300 individuals suffered permanent disabilities, highlighting the severe consequences of rubber bullet usage.

The study found that deaths and permanent disabilities were often the result of head and neck strikes. Specifically, 49.1% of deaths and 82.6% of permanent disabilities were linked to injuries in these critical areas. This underscores the inherent danger of rubber bullets, which are designed to be fired at a 45-degree angle to ricochet and impact a target.

Understanding the Injury Mechanism

Rubber bullets can cause a wide range of injuries beyond simple surface contact. These injuries can include

Hematoma Ecchymosis Contusions Internal kinetic damage beneath the skin Fractures Intramuscular hematoma Pulmonary contusions Compartment syndrome

The most dangerous areas are the neck and head, where injuries can lead to:

Vertebral arterial dissection Subdural or subarachnoid hemorrhage Orbital-sinus-maxilla fracture Cranial nerve damage

Police Usage and Misuse of Rubber Bullets

Despite the clear guidelines for rubber bullet usage, there is a disturbing trend of misuse by law enforcement. Police often fire rubber bullets straight ahead, aligning their use more closely with the firing of classic ballistic bullets rather than as intended.

This method of use can be highly dangerous, especially in situations where peaceful protests are being suppressed. For instance, images of police pointing firearms loaded with rubber bullets at young, peaceful protesters, who are often only a few feet away, are concerning. At close range, such as 5 feet, a rubber bullet fired at the head would likely result in fatal injuries.

Types and Variations of Rubber Bullets

The effectiveness of rubber bullets can vary greatly depending on the type used. Common variations include:

Rubber bullets Sacks of sand

These differ based on factors such as:

The material they are made of (rubber or sand) (Basic) where they are fired Who loaded them The place of impact Whether used point blank or at a distance

Types can also range from strong paintball-like projectiles to super-hard balls that can cause significant internal damage. The impact can lead to:

Bruise-like injuries Severe cuts or punctures Internal organ damage

Conclusion

The use of rubber bullets by law enforcement agencies raises serious ethical and safety concerns. These weapons, designed to cause less severe harm than traditional ammunition, can still result in fatal injuries and permanent disabilities when used improperly. It is crucial for police to adhere to established guidelines and use these weapons responsibly to ensure public safety while minimizing harm.