SA: Police officer burns hands with own distraction device

AAP General News (Australia)
08-20-1999
SA: Police officer burns hands with own distraction device

ADELAIDE, Aug 20 AAP - A policeman was badly burnt when a flash grenade exploded in his
jacket after a raid early today.

South Australia Police acting assistant commissioner Gary Burns said STAR Division officers
had completed the search of a house in the inner north-east suburb of Clearview when the
device detonated.

"One of the members, in unpacking the gear from his load-bearing vest...one of the sound
and flash distraction devices activated," Mr Burns told reporters.

"He took evasive action, trying to shield his face with his hands, as a result he's got
injured hands."

The explosion followed a raid on the house of Ron Reiman, who was phoned at 4.30am by armed
officers who ordered him and his family to come outside with their hands raised.

Police then searched the house, seizing 20 guns and computer equipment, but would not
reveal the purpose of the search.

Mr Reiman said he did not know what police were looking for, but that all his guns were
registered and the siege-like nature of the raid was not warranted.

"I'm 53, I remember the days when policeman went around without guns and knocked on your
door," Mr Reiman said.

"These blokes are running around with machine guns, Kevlar helmets and bullet-proof vests.

"Some people think because I have got a (Australian) flag painted on the roof this is the
headquarters of National Action."

Police said they were trying to determine why the device exploded.

AAP scl/sn/br

KEYWORD: JACKET

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