A former part-time RTHK journalist has been charged after he was found with two airguns and a walkie-talkie in his backpack near the Hong Kong Police College earlier this year.

The 21-year-old postsecondary student was charged with possession of imitation firearms and radiocommunication apparatus without a licence on Friday and will be brought before Eastern Court on August 25.

The student, who worked as a part-time journalist for government-funded RTHK at the time of the arrest, was stopped for an identity check at an exit of Ocean Park MTR station in Wong Chuk Hang at about 8.10am on April 15. He had been on his way to cover performances at an open house event at the Hong Kong Police College.

The student was working for RTHK at the time of the arrest.

He was arrested after officers seized two airguns and a walkie-talkie in his backpack. Imitation firearms can refer to toy guns, airguns or guns used in war games.

Police said on Friday that the charges were laid against the suspect after seeking legal advice.

The public broadcaster said the junior reporter was removed from his duties following the arrest.

In Hong Kong, possession of imitation firearms carries a maximum penalty of seven years in jail.