Armed police have been spotted swooping in on a group of young men shooting each other with water pistols.

Officers armed with weapons were deployed on High Street in Watford on Friday, while a police helicopter was also on hand to assist.

The incident, which happened outside the Wetherspoons-operated Moon Under Water pub, occurred after the young men were seen shooting the plastic water pistols at each other in the town centre.

Once police arrived, the men were seen with their hands in the air as they were surrounded by the armed responders.

One of the men was observed in handcuffs while at least two white plastic guns were seen on the pavement in front of them.

Video footage of the incident shows events unfolding, while the person filming can be heard saying: “All of this for these little toy guns.”

However, many locals agreed it was better to be safe than sorry given the context.

In the comment section underneath an Instagram video, one said: "If they turned out to be real you’ll all be moaning and why they didn’t take action.

"I feel sorry for British Police for having to put up with such an entitled nation - damned if you do, damned if you don’t."

Another added: "Glad they did arrive!"

A third said: "The problem now we have are some low lifes are putting chemicals in things like this so I can understand when the police come out they don’t always know if they’re dealing with real guns so please also remember this."

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Police told MailOnline: "Police were called to reports of males in possession of firearms at Station Road, Watford at 5:51pm on Friday 2 May.

"A search commenced to find the males with the assistance of a police helicopter. The males were located at around 6.35pm on Watford High Street and were detained.

"Officers ascertained that the males were in possession of water pistols, words of advice were given, and no further action was taken."