A Humberside Police Inspector has praised the work of the forces Armed Policing Unit (APU), highlighting the dedication and professionalism of officers responsible for responding to firearms incidents across the region. The unit operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, handling high-risk situations while also supporting planned operations, assisting local policing teams, and maintaining a visible presence in public areas such as airports and ferry terminals.
Inspector Andy Parsons, who oversees the unit, described the officers as highly trained professionals committed to public safety.
“Our officers’ primary focus is the protection and preservation of life. The decision to deploy armed officers is never taken lightly and follows strict protocols to ensure all actions are proportionate and necessary,” he said.
The recognition of the Armed Policing Unit comes off the back of last year’s inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS), which found Humberside Police to be one of the top-performing forces in the country. The force received three “outstanding” grades across eight key areas of policing—the highest rating nationwide—reflecting its commitment to excellence.
Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Evison praised the force’s achievements, stating:
“It is really encouraging to see such a positive report from HMICFRS for Humberside Police. These grades reflect the continued hard work of Police Officers, Police Staff, and Volunteers. My thanks go to everyone for their hard work and dedication to the public.”
The force was recognised for its strong leadership, community engagement, and ability to respond effectively to complex incidents. However, while most areas of policing were rated as good or outstanding, the report identified investigating crime as an area requiring improvement—something the force has since been working to address.
Within this context, the Armed Policing Unit’s highly specialised role remains a key pillar of Humberside Police’s operational strength. Officers undergo extensive training, including a 13-week Initial Firearms Course and ongoing Tactical Medical (TAC-MED) instruction, allowing them to provide emergency medical support in critical situations. Regular assessments ensure they remain prepared for the demands of high-pressure incidents.
Beyond firearms incidents, the unit also supports broader policing functions, including taser deployments, specialist driving, and public reassurance patrols. Inspector Parsons emphasised the high level of scrutiny surrounding armed policing, with all firearms deployments carefully recorded and reviewed to ensure they meet professional and ethical standards. He reiterated that the use of firearms is always a last resort, with officers prioritising de-escalation and negotiation wherever possible.
The recognition from HMICFRS highlights the force’s dedication to maintaining public trust and delivering high standards of policing across all departments, including the Armed Policing Unit. Humberside Police’s commitment to safety, professionalism, and ongoing development continues to position it as one of the UK’s leading forces.