So is this a reporting error or will this crime be counted towards 'firearms' despite it being an air rifle?
It's either an air rifle, or a firearm. It can't be both!
Well...considering you need to be an RFD in order to sell one and have an FAC in order to own one (in some areas)...I can understand the BBC used that word.
The law makes no distinction between air rifles and more powerful guns for which you need a licence – they are all classed as firearms. This means that any offence you commit can carry a very heavy penalty, and there are at least 38 different offences. Following this code will help you to keep on the right side of the law, but, if you have any doubt, seek advice from BASC (www.basc.org.uk) or your local police firearms licensing department.
The law makes no distinction between air rifles and more powerful guns for which you need a licence – they are all classed as firearms. This means that any offence you commit can carry a very heavy penalty, and there are at least 38 different offences. Following this code will help you to keep on the right side of the law, but, if you have any doubt, seek advice from BASC (http://www.basc.org.uk) or your local police firearms licensing department.