Replica Firearm Recovered Near School
[Updated] Police responded to a report of a minor seen carrying what appeared to be a handgun, which was later confirmed to be a black-painted replica firearm safely recovered without harm.
A police spokesperson said, “Around 2:30 p.m. on Monday, February 16, 2026, police received a report that a minor child was seen in the area of the Prospect Primary school, carrying a black handgun.
“Officers were immediately dispatched to the scene and were provided a photograph of the child holding what appeared to be a firearm.
“The child was subsequently located near the school and was approached by the officers.
“After speaking with them, the child took the officers to a nearby residence where the item was handed over to them by an adult at that location.
“Upon examination, the item was revealed to be a replica firearm, painted black.”
Antoine Daniels, Assistant Commissioner of Police, praised the officers for the high level of professionalism and skill they displayed in dealing with this situation.
“These officers employed methods taught during their training to ensure that at no time was the child’s safety or wellbeing put at risk. This is due in no small measure to the rigorous methods used in preparing our firearms teams, for dealing with high pressure situations. I wish to also thank those who contacted us and assisted in having this situation resolved.”
The Assistant Commissioner urged, “Parents and caregivers please pay close attention to the items your young ones take with them when they leave home. While the outcome of this matter was positive, it did initially create a level of panic which could have been prevented.”
Update Feb 18, 4.30pm: A Government spokesperson said, “Minister of National Security Michael Weeks expressed serious concern following reports that police were called on Monday, February 16, 2026, after a child was seen carrying what appeared to be a black handgun.”
Minister Weeks stated: “This incident is deeply troubling on so many different levels. A child in possession of what appeared to be a firearm ought to send shock waves throughout our community, and this matter demands that someone ought to be held accountable for this incident.
“That is something that could very easily have escalated into a dangerous situation with a very different outcome, especially if armed officers had to respond in real time. Thankfully, through the professionalism and competence of the BPS officers, nothing more serious occurred. Thank God it did not come to that.”
He continued, “I want to commend the officers involved. They handled this situation with professionalism, calm judgment, and care for the child’s safety, and that deserves recognition. That is exactly the kind of measured policing our community needs and expects.”
The spokesperson said, “Noting that the item recovered was later confirmed to be a black-painted replica firearm handed over by an adult at a nearby residence, the Minister stressed the broader lesson for the community.”
Minister Weeks said, “As a father and as someone who cares deeply about our young people, I am urging parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the activities of their children and to monitor their behaviour.
“We have to keep a close eye on what they are doing, what they are being exposed to, and what they think is acceptable. These are our children, all of them, and it takes all of us working together to guide them in the right direction.”
He added, “We are living in a time when concerns about youth violence and gun violence are very real, and situations like this remind us why vigilance at home and in the community matters so much.”
The spokesperson said, “Minister Weeks emphasised that community partnership remains central to public safety, noting appreciation for members of the public who alerted police and helped bring the matter to a safe resolution.”
