FBI Director Kash Patel presented inoperable, 3D-printed pistols as gifts to senior New Zealand security officials during a July visit. The replica weapons were deemed potentially operable under local gun laws and subsequently destroyed by New Zealand authorities. Patel was in Wellington to open the FBI's first standalone office in the country. The incident, which occurred during Patel's high-level meetings, has raised questions about the handling of the gifts and New Zealand's strict firearms regulations.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.