Man with BB gun sparks armed police callout

Photo / NZ Herald

A man allegedly brandishing a BB gun in Porirua this afternoon sparked an armed police callout in two separate Titahi Bay locations, police say.

"A first sighting was received just prior to 2pm where the male was reported to be sitting at the main entrance to Titahi Bay beach holding what was believed to be a handgun," police said in a statement.

By the time police arrived he had gone.

"About 20 minutes later a further call was received advising that the same person had entered a local pub and a handgun had again been seen.

"Police cordoned the immediate area and began evacuating patrons from the premises."

The man came out of his own accord shortly afterwards and was taken into custody without incident.

"It has been confirmed that the firearm he had was a BB gun. Prior to leaving the pub the male had allegedly fired a couple of pellets inside however there is no indication that he had threatened or presented the gun at anyone at any stage," the statement said.

Police said it was a prime example of an unnecessary and dangerous situation involving a fake but highly authentic looking gun.

"Had this person not cooperated with police instructions but instead presented that gun in any manner towards them or other persons the response may have been drastically different, and the outcome potentially tragic."