Seizure of 6 replica guns in North Vancouver prompts police warning

North Vancouver RCMP seized six replica airsoft guns after receiving a report on July 19 that the guns were airsoft devices.

Police were warned of three people dressed in full military camouflage, wearing a helmet and soft body armour while firing airsoft guns outside an elementary school. However, when police arrived on the scene they confirmed that the guns were in fact replicas — but were indistinguishable from real guns.

“Replica guns like these are indistinguishable from the real thing,” stated Cpl Geoff Harder. “While they may seem harmless, they cause panic and will elicit a police response.”

This has prompted the RCMP to issue a warning asking the public to be aware that police officers must treat guns as real until confirmed to be fake. This protocol goes to ensure the safety of the public.

Police warn that replica firearms should only be used in designated areas such as gun ranges or paintball fields. While replica firearms are being transported to such areas, they should stored in the trunk or out of view of the public.