A HASTINGS flying instructor believes NSW should follow in the footsteps of Western Australian and declare hand-held lasers “controlled weapons” after an incident in the skies above Port Macquarie.

Yesterday, the Western Australian Police Minister John Kobelke declared laser pointers to be ‘controlled weapons’ with fines of up to $4000 or 12 months jail for their illegal use.

It is a move that will strengthen the push in New South Wales to have the hand-held devices officially banned.

More at Port Macquarie News

Isn’t it overkill?