Department of Public Safety spokesman Eric F. David said the two firearms instructors — CNMI Range Master Ambrosio T. Ogumoro and instructor David M. Hosono — completed their firearm instructor update recertification.
Ogumoro said he will continue to enforce and regulate civilian firearms in the CNMI.
Ogumoro said since his reinstatement as range master late last year, the number of unregistered firearms has dropped from 800 to 200.
“My priority now is to conduct the Phase II training for all police officers in the CNMI starting next month,” Ogumoro said.
The training will consist of classroom marksmanship safety instruction, proficiency and tactical training.
Ogumoro said he was surprised to learn that Homeland Security was scheduled to bring in four firearms instructors from the U.S. to train 30 CNMI police officers on special weapons and tactics training.
Ogumoro said the training, which was slated for a week, will cost about $87,000.
He said instead of spending $87,000 for the four instructors, the money could have funded the trip of Tinian and Rota officers to Saipan for a combined SWAT training that will be conducted by a Federal Bureau of Investigation firearms instructor.
