Queensland police will continue using potentially faulty service pistols while the firearms undergo testing, a deputy commissioner has confirmed. The admission follows the identification of a defect affecting 15,000 Glock pistols issued by the Queensland Police Service, which could cause them to accidentally fire multiple bullets.
Faulty Weapons Remain in Service
Despite the discovery of the malfunction that increases the weapon's potential lethality, not all pistols are being immediately recalled. Deputy Commissioner Chris Stream stated that community safety would not be diminished while the state's supply of service-issued Glocks is tested. 'The ones that aren't tested will continue to be used,' he told reporters on Thursday.
Minister Demands Answers
Queensland Police and Emergency Services Minister Dan Purdie expressed concern over the findings. 'We are now demanding answers of the Queensland Police Service,' he said. The minister emphasised the need for clarity on the issue, which has raised questions about officer and public safety.
Potential Fatal Consequences
When asked whether faulty weapons could be used in the field before testing, with potentially fatal consequences, Deputy Commissioner Stream replied, 'Yes, there is that possibility.' However, he noted that the risk would only materialise if the weapon was drawn in a lethal use-of-force situation. 'It doesn't diminish the wider community safety,' he added.
Testing and Replacement Process
Weapons that fail further testing will be replaced with Glocks that have passed the test. Officers have received instructional videos about the issue. While the number of affected weapons and the cost of replacements are not yet known, Mr Stream assured that cost is not a concern in maintaining community safety.
Historical Context and Recent Discovery
The Queensland Police Service has used the Glock pistol since 1999. Mr Stream was unable to explain why the issue had only recently arisen. 'The QPS is actually still purchasing these weapons new, and as late as 2025, we received new batches of weapons,' he said. 'New testing has revealed this specific issue.' He confirmed that no operational incidents have been recorded in connection with the handguns. Queensland Police are now working with suppliers to identify defects.
