Australian arrested for holding 'pistol-like object' in Hong Kong

Hong Kong police and counterterrorism officers have arrested an Australian man after he was spotted with a "pistol-like object". ( AFP )

An Australian man has been arrested after being spotted with a "pistol-like object" in a bar in Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong Police Force alleges the man then damaged a wall and a smoke detector while in custody.

An expert says possession of an imitation firearm carries a maximum penalty of two years' imprisonment.

An Australian man has been in custody in Hong Kong after being arrested on suspicion of carrying what appeared to be a gun and causing property damage.

The Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) deployed counterterrorism officers and the Emergency Unit, after reports the 36-year-old tourist was "holding a pistol-like object" on Wednesday night.

Pictures seen by the ABC showed the man with his face covered by a black hood as he was taken away in a police vehicle in the district of Jordan.

Authorities seized the suspected weapon before arresting the man at the scene for possession of an imitation firearm. ( Supplied )

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