PSNI will not releasedetails of cars used by specialist units

The force has, however, released details of the cars and lorries it uses as part of its normal fleet.

Cars manufactured by Audi, BMW, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Landrover, Leyland DAF, Mazda, Mercedes, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Renault, Seat, Skoda, Toyota, Vauxhall, Volkswagen and Volvo are all used by the PSNI here.

Refusing to provide details of cars used by specialist units, the PSNI stated: “Releasing details of which makes of PSNI vehicles are used in specialist areas/units in Northern Ireland would not be in the public interest.

“The factors in favour of release are outweighed by the factors favouring non-release.

“Disclosing information in relation to the makes of vehicles would assist criminal’s intent on committing crimes against the public and attacks on police potentially increasing the risk to public safety.”

The PSNI said it was withholding the details in the interest of public safety.

“The safety of the public and Police Officers is paramount and the PSNI will not disclose information which may put these at risk. It is therefore considered that the need to withhold the information is greater than the public interest in disclosing it.”