China's Figure Skaters Under Probe Following Displaying Prop Weapon at Competition

The International Skating Union have launched an investigation following a pair of Chinese figure skaters appeared with an object resembling a replica weapon during a grand prix figure skating event.

Television video showed the skaters waiting alongside a large toy shaped like a missile marked “DF-61” while waiting for their scores in the “kiss and cry” zone during the event.

The DF-61 represents a recently introduced China-produced ground-launched intercontinental ballistic missile designed for transporting atomic warheads, that had been unveiled during a national ceremony last month.

Officials is aware that an inappropriate plush item appears to have been among those thrown on to the ice by audience members following a routine at the ISU Figure Skating Grand Prix Cup of China event,” the organization commented via a release.

“The soft toy was then handled by the skaters after their performance. The ISU regrets this occurrence and will investigate further.”

The duo placed eighth of 10 pairs in the ice dance event, which was won by the American pair from the US.