In accordance with a new law approved by the Federal Council, the Swiss Federal Railway (SBB) security forces will be allowed to carry firearms from summer 2012. These laws will help increase the safety of railway customers, staff and security officers, due (among other reasons) to smoother cooperation with other police forces.

The transport security officers will carry concealed firearms, only using them in self-defence or to protect others in cases where real danger to SBB customers, staff or transport security officers cannot otherwise be avoided. Comprehensive procedural rules are currently being drafted, which will govern the use of firearms.

Security onboard trains has not fundamentally worsened these past few years. Passengers generally feel safe. However it has been noted that some passengers are more often prone to using violence against other passengers or train staff. Transport security officers carrying firearms will have the potential to react appropriately if a situation escalates and thus protect passengers, staff and themselves. Moreover, providing transport security forces with firearms facilitates joint undertakings with other police forces and creates synergies in cooperative ventures.

(Source: SBB press)