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Police raise concerns about air-powered guns

CALGARY- Police are concerned about a growing number of reports of firearms—which turn out to be air-powered guns.

Officers say that BB, pellet and Airsoft guns are made to imitate real guns and are often mistaken by the public. As a result, large numbers of resources are required when responding to a firearm call—whether the gun turns out to be real or not.

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“When the public calls us with concerns of a firearm being seen, or used, in a public place, we must respond as though it is real, which often requires a significant police presence involving a number of our units such as patrol, HAWCs, K9, and TAC,” says Inspector Mike Tillotson. “However, we still encourage people to report any potential sightings of firearms. Real or air powered, they pose a concern for public safety.”

It is a bylaw offence in Calgary to fire any weapon within city limits, or to transport an air-powered gun with a round of ammunition in the chamber.

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The guns can only be used at shooting ranges within the city, or outside city limits if permission has been obtained from the private land owner.

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