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.”
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.
“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,” Minister Weeks said.
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.”
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.
