'It's an offence to be in possession of a fake pistol' - IGP

Being in possession of a fake firearm is an offence under the law regardless of the reason, says Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar.

"I would like to remind everyone not to make any justifications to be in possession of a fake firearm because it is an offence under the law," he said.

Khalid was commenting on the arrest of a former vocalist of a popular band in the 90's for possessing a fake pistol in Sentul here early yesterday morning.

The singer, in his 40s, was released in the evening and was reported as saying that the pistol was used to shoot lizards at home and that he was not aware it was an offence to own a toy pistol.

"Police will be conducting further investigations under the Firearms Act 1960," Khalid told reporters after attending the first Putrajaya International Security Dialogue here today.

The event was opened by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.