Halton Regional Police is warning the community of the ‘assassins game’ involving students spraying each other with water guns in public after receiving reports of incidents.
In a media release on Tuesday, police say they have received a “series of reported incidents this week.”
According to police, the game, also known as ‘senior assassin,’ typically involves elementary and high school students using nerf-style water guns to “hunt” and “assassinate” each other in public. This game can typically take place in a variety of settings regardless of the time of day, police added.
Police say the game has caused great concern in the community with some of the toy guns resembling real firearms, which have led to police being contacted by observers who are unaware that the game is being played.
In a statement to Now Toronto, Halton police say that the game has been an occurrence in the region for the last four to five years.
“So far this year we’ve only received two calls from the public related to the game and they were on the same day this week in Burlington,” the statement said.
Police say they respond to these types of calls with an elevated emergency response, which is a situation they are trying to avoid.
However, some social media users feel that the game should not be taken seriously.
“Let kids be kids. This is a harmless, fun game, can something untoward happen? Sure, but anything and everything has risks,” one X user said.
“Once upon a time, it was safe for kids to play with water guns/toy guns. Kids aren’t the problem OR the solution,” another X user said.
Variations of the game have also made its way around social media, with viral clips showing youth jokingly spraying each other with guns.
While it may be all fun and games, Halton police is still insisting that parents, students, and the public be more cautious.
“The HRPS discourages youth from participating in this game and encourages parents and guardians to speak to their children about its potential risks and consequences,” the release said.
