Police seize air pistols from unlicensed import shop

Police are reminding retailers about the rules relating to air-operated pistols after more than 100 were seized from a Palmerston North import shop that didn't hold a dealer's licence. Photo / NZPA

Palmerston North police have warned retailers they need a dealer's licence to sell air pistols after seizing more than 100 from an unlicensed import shop.

Area arms officer Greg Nyhan said no decision had been made on whether the shop would be charged but offenders could be charged under the Arms Act.

"We want to take the opportunity to remind retailers that possession and sale of guns, and similar air guns, is an offence and they will be seized and destroyed," he said.

"It is also timely to remind everyone that unlawful possession of airguns regardless of their strength, and discharging these weapons in a public place, is also an offence."

The firearms seized used air compressed by a cocking spring to fire a round, plastic pellet up to 20m.

"While they appear to be toys, they have the potential to produce painful results," Mr Nyhan said.

"Two such firearms were seized recently from two youths who were firing the air gun at children playing in a school playground."

- NZPA