This looks like a gun, but is actually a smartphone case. Picture: Essex Police

According to The Sun, police at the airport swooped in to stop the foolish member of the public yesterday morning after spotting the dodgy-looking black case in his carry-on luggage.

Officers took to Twitter to highlight the silliness of the man’s actions — and revealed he could be charged with carrying an imitation firearm in a public space.

Essex Police tweeted: “You have a split second decision to make … #WhatWouldYouDo #joblikenoother #AirportCops.”

The force added: “Bringing this to an airport makes it much less likely you’ll catch your plane.”

An hour later they tweeted further photos of the black plastic case which even includes a trigger and realistic indentations.

It is not clear if the man was arrested or will face further action.

Essex Police officers based at Stansted said he could be facing charges relating to a public order offence or potentially Possession of Imitation Firearm in a Public Place.

In a statement, an Essex Police spokeswoman said: “Essex Police was informed by Stansted Airport security staff that they had dealt with this incident during the routine screening of a passenger’s carry-on bag and possessions.

“Travellers are asked to consider the types of items they bring into the airport as they could lead to extra security checks or delays and/or police involvement. This could lead to them potentially missing their flight or not being allowed to travel.”