US National Guard authorised to carry firearms in Washington

Some National Guard units deployed in Washington, DC, have been authorised to carry firearms as part of heightened security measures in the US capital.

The Washington Post reports that service members may be equipped with M4 carbines and M17 pistols while on patrol.

The deployment includes troops from the District of Columbia and six additional states that have joined federal efforts to bolster security.

Officials said the weapons would only be used as a last resort, in response to an imminent threat to life or serious injury.

According to defence sources, the National Guard’s primary role is to support local law enforcement and ensure their safe operation.

Guardsmen will continue protecting federal property and may provide cover for police during arrests if required.

The Pentagon has also confirmed that guardsmen will have the authority to detain offenders until police officers arrive temporarily.

The announcement came as Trump claimed, without evidence, on August 24 that there is “NO CRIME AND NO MURDER IN DC!”, one week after he deployed troops there.

By Aghakazim Guliyev