Winnipeg police warn teens after multiple creepy clown reports

So-called “creepy clown” encounters are making people nervous across Canada and the U.S.

WINNIPEG - Two teenaged boys in Winnipeg escaped with only a warning after police say they responded to a report of clowns chasing people.

Police say the report claimed one of the clowns was armed, and when officers arrived at the scene on Saturday night, they found multiple people who said they'd been chased.

Two 17-year-old boys were apprehended, and police say they found clown-like masks and a large flashlight.

Police say they considered charging the duo with weapons-related or mischief offences, but they cautioned the pair instead.

Police say dressing up as a clown in not against the law, but a person could face charges if there are grounds to believe he or she committed acts of mischief, or threatened, assaulted or harassed others.

Creepy clown sightings, threats and arrests have been reported across North America and even reached the United Kingdom.