Requests from public or community security providers for equipment (e.g. fuel, use of vehicles, communications equipment, etc) can be a common occurrence. Where this is the case, sites should develop a procedure for equipment transfers commensurate to the level of risk this presents. This can be developed at level and adapted at a site level.
A clear procedure helps to respond to requests and should prohibit the transfer of lethal equipment (e.g. firearms) and establish clear safeguards for all equipment transfers. The procedure should also include the requirement to examine alternatives (for example, providing training or non-lethal equipment instead of lethal equipment) and confirming that the reasons for the equipment are valid.
If equipment transfer does go ahead, safeguards should be put in place. The procedure should outline that the legality of the equipment transfer should be confirmed and the site should only agree to such requests on the condition that the public providers will respect human rights and follow international humanitarian law.
The use of transferred equipment should be monitored. This might be done by using a tracking device, requesting specific monitoring reports from public providers, or even accompanying the public security provider when the equipment is to be used. Another option is to seek third party verification that equipment that has been transferred is being used appropriately. The procedure should outline the requirement for monitoring of transferred equipment.