Illegal self-defence sprays seized

Tuesday 04 April 2023

Customs officials have issued a warning after recently seizing several self defence spray canisters which are illegal to import into the island.

Although many websites appear to advertise the products as a legal self-defence spray, the description and purpose of these items mean that they require a licence to import into Jersey and will therefore be seized without one.

The illegal element of the product is the noxious content in the chemical makeup of the spray which cause severe irritation and discomfort when it comes into contact with eyes and nasal passages. It is illegal under the Jersey Firearms Law.

Jersey Police issued a warning about a similar self-defence spray in 2013, when officers were called by a member of the public who had bought a product known as FARBGEL online.

Pictured: Colt Security spray is advertised as a 'UK Legal Self Defence Pepper Spray' but in fact requires a licence to legally import into the island.

The product was advertised as a defence spray designed to be used by people wishing to protect themselves, and came with claims that it was legal and complied with regulations within the UK.

However, Police and Customs officers both confirmed that FARBGEL was a noxious liquid that would require a licence to import into the island and is therefore illegal if bought and imported into Jersey.