Teen brings firearm on public bus

A young person involved in a recent firearms incident has been arrested by ACT Policing for openly carrying an alleged firearm on a public bus and a shopping centre.  

About 3.30pm yesterday (Wednesday, 28 September 2022) ACT Policing officers were alerted to a teenager on a public bus who had a weapon tucked into the waistband of their trousers. 

The 15-year-old allegedly produced the weapon on the bus to show his friends prior to entering Gungahlin Marketplace. 

Police witnessed the boy return to the bus interchange where they arrested him. The imitation handgun was knocked to the ground during the arrest when the teen attempted to draw the item from his waistband.  

Investigations identified the weapon as an imitation handgun.

The teen, who was on bail at the time of the incident, has been charged with possession of a firearm in a public place. 

The boy is set to face the ACT Childrens Court where police will oppose bail. 

Detective Superintendent North District Mick Calatzis said the brazen carrying of the gun came after similar incidents in recent weeks where people had been arrested for carrying gel blasters. 

“We have seen an increase in people carrying weapons that to the naked eye would look like a real firearm,” D/Supt Calatzis said. 

“Gel blasters and imitation firearms are unlawful in the ACT and police are working hard to get these weapons off Canberra streets. Our focus is always to keep Canberrans safe.” 

Anyone who can assist police with yesterday’s arrest is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website.   

Please quote 7119057. 

Media enquiries 

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au