POLICE are today hunting armed robbers who used a hi-tech stun gun to hold up two teenagers in Southampton.

The boys, both aged 15, were left shaken after a gang of three youths forced them to hand over their mountain bikes, money and cigarettes.

Police believe the stun gun was authentic as the victims reported hearing a crackle of electricity when the weapon was activated during the attack.

The weapon has been adopted by police forces such as Hampshire as a less-lethal option than using firearms.

Tasers fire a pair of darts up to 15 feet which attach themselves to the victim's clothing and deliver a 50,000 volt electric shock.

Anyone hit suffers extreme pain and temporary paralysis but no permanent injury.

The product is widely available on the continent and in the US, with a police issue model selling for around $400 (about £250) on one website.

Det Sgt Jan Bulfield, of Bitterne CID, told the Daily Echo the description suggested it was likely to be a Taser-type gun.

He said: "It is concerning that someone is prepared to use a weapon of that nature to remove property from youngsters.

"It is the first time I have ever known a robbery involving a stun gun in the years since they became available.

"I would imagine that it would give someone an electric shock if used. The consequences potentially could be serious."

Detectives have now launched an investigation into the availability of the stun guns and how many are on the streets.

"We are looking at whether you can get hold of these weapons and looking at the availability of them," said Det Sgt Bulfield.

The stun gun was not used during the incident.

It happened as they sat on a bench next to the church ground at Peartree Green.

It is believed that it was activated when one of the gang members pointed it at the air and fired it.

The boys were both forced to hand over their mountain bikes during the ordeal which occurred at about 11.15pm on Friday.

The bikes are described as a black GT Avalanche One Series worth about £500, and a blue and white Apollo.

The three robbers were described as aged between 15 to 16 years.

The first was white, 5ft 10in, with long brown hair; the second was black, 6ft with a lanky build and the third was of mixed race, 5ft 5in, with a skinny build, short black hair and wearing a cap.

DS Bulfield added: "We would be interested to identify any witnesses, in any information about anybody who may have such a weapon or the whereabouts of the stolen bikes. People can talk to us in complete confidence."

Anyone with information can contact Bitterne CID on 0845 045 4545 or anonymously on Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.