A routine stop-and-search by officers of the Alakara Police Division caused a stir in Mushin, Lagos, yesterday, after a suspected firearm found in a vehicle turned out to be a toy gun.

The Guardian learnt that the officers intercepted a Toyota Camry and asked all occupants to step out for a body search, which yielded nothing suspicious. A further search of the vehicle, however, led to the discovery of what initially appeared to be a gun.

Tension rose when it was later confirmed to be a toy. Two of the officers reportedly became visibly angry and questioned the driver about why he had the object. After intense questioning, one officer suddenly handed the toy gun back to the driver, prompting confusion and disagreement among his colleagues.

“Why would you give it back to him? Do you know what he might do with it next time?” one of the officers was heard asking. The incident attracted the attention of passersby, some of whom expressed concern about the potential risks of carrying objects that resemble real firearms. (The Guardian)