For Towfeek Ali, managing director of The Firearms Training Institute Ltd., guns were just a hobby of his until he turned it into a viable business in 1995 on the suggestion of a friend.

His fascination in his early years led him to go abroad where he also gained extensive experience in the field. He had been trained by the Trinidad Rifle Association and at the National Rifle Association (NRA) in the U.S. Ali said the training process is an ongoing one and he too is continuously upgrading his skills. Presently, he is the secretary of the Central Trinidad Pistol and Rifle Club, which has over 100 members.

The institute is the only one of its kind servicing Central. It has received formal recognition from the Ministry of National Security as an institution for gaining practical training in the use of firearms.

To use their facilities or be offered any of their services you must be a holder of a firearm employer's user's certificate or a firearm user's licence. For those who would like to become holders you must go through a thorough procedure, which involves getting a certificate of good character from the police and getting the approval of the Commissioner of Police.

The company has over 200 clients including business executives, security companies and hunters. Security companies are offered the opportunity to upgrade their officers' skills in the use of firearms and mental preparedness for unexpected situations - making them more proficient and more confident in their duties.

The institute also offers training for security officers in preparation for the Precept examination, which takes place at the Police Training College.

Firearms Training Institute Ltd carries a wide range of firearms and related accessories and services. Ali is a licensed firearms dealer and gunsmith. He also retails bullet proof vests and related accessories.

Ali stocks the best names, including Beretta, Glock, Sig Sauer, Ruger, Taurus S/W, Springfield, Heckler & Koch, Remington, Benilli, Mossberg, Browning, H&R and a host of other brands. The cost of these weapons range from $5,000 to $15,000 for handguns to shotguns depending on the type of weapon chosen.

Soon members will have an added convenience of having an indoor shooting range in Chaguanas. The facility was built to specifications adhered to by the National Rifle Association of America. The company has three professional gun instructors including Ali who all give participants full and personalized attention. Clifford Archer, a retired police senior superintendent, is one of his consultants and the office manager. Archer has acquired a total of 42 years of experience in the police service that includes 30 years spent as a detective. He was also attached to the Fraud Squad. He brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the establishment that he passes unto the institute's clients.

When the instructors feel confident that a participant is competent in all the disciplines, the individual receives a Certificate of Competence.

For more inquiries on the services being offered at the institute contact them at the Corner of John and Henry Streets, Montrose, Chaguanas or call them at (868) 671-ARMS (2767).

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