'Assault rifle' sparked armed police response - but it was actually a water pistol

Three teenagers were arrested after armed officers and a police helicopter were seen in the area, following reports a 'gun' had been pointed out of a car window while travelling from Newton Abbot to Torquay

An 'assault rifle' found in Plymouth which led to the arrest of three teenagers was a water pistol, police have confirmed.

Armed officers and a police helicopter were called after the 'weapon' was pointed out of a car window while travelling from to Torquay. The emergency services were called at around 5pm on Monday, September 17.

Devon and Cornwall Police discovered a replica assault rifle in a stationary vehicle in Plympton during their search. A force spokesperson has since clarified that the replica weapon, which bore a striking resemblance to an assault rifle, was indeed a water gun, PlymouthLive reported.

Three 19-year-old boys were taken into custody on suspicion of possessing a firearm with the intention to cause fear of violence. Two of them have since been released on police bail, while no further action wtaken against the third.

In a statement, Devon and Cornwall Police said: "Police were called at around 5pm following reports of a firearm being pointed out of the window of a car travelling from Newton Abbot towards Torquay.

"Armed officers and the NPAS helicopter were deployed and following a search the vehicle was located stationary in Plympton. Three 19-year-old males from Plymouth were detained and arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

"Two have been released on police bail and the third will be the subject of no further action. A search of the car uncovered a replica assault rifle."