A 28-year-old man, Waqar Hassan Virk, faced Downing Centre Local Court after allegedly discharging a water pistol resembling a Glock firearm outside New South Wales Parliament on Thursday afternoon, sparking a heavy police response, Stuff has reported. Magistrate Greg Grogan did not mince words, calling Virk's actions "incredibly stupid" and encouraging him to "reflect on the stupidity" of the incident.
The court was told that Virk, a Granville resident, drove behind Parliament House around 1 p.m., extended his arm out of his car window with the imitation weapon, and fired what was believed to be water. Parliament CCTV footage captured him allegedly "brandishing" and "waving" the gun-like object, leading to alarm among parliamentary staff. With parliament in session, they promptly contacted police, but Virk reportedly fled the scene before authorities arrived.
Grogan remarked that Virk was fortunate not to have been injured or worse, as the toy gun, featuring a white body and black slide, appeared "fairly real." Police arrested Virk hours later near Sydney Airport after an extensive manhunt. During questioning, Virk admitted his actions and expressed remorse, stating he had purchased the water pistol days prior as a gift for his nephew in Pakistan.
Virk’s lawyer acknowledged that the act was “incredibly inadvisable,” though not intended to cause harm. Magistrate Grogan set strict bail conditions, including surrendering Virk's passport, restricting travel, and prohibiting him from entering the vicinity of NSW Parliament House or Hospital Road.
Virk, who works as an Uber and truck driver, faces a maximum sentence of five years for possessing an unauthorised firearm. His case will continue in court on November 29.
