Hoax gun report prompted heavy police response at Western University

London, Ont., police are reminding the public that it's a crime to knowingly make a false report after numerous officers descended on Western University's campus on Monday for what turned out to be a hoax.

Police say the significant response followed a report of a man with a gun outside of Western's Weldon Library that came in shortly before 3 p.m. ET.

A multitude of police vehicles could be seen arriving on campus, along with a light-armoured vehicle and members of the London police emergency response unit.

Western students received an email from campus police advising of a "safety incident" at the library and asking them to "leave the area or stay away as required for your safety."

Police say it was quickly determined that the report was a hoax, but a search of the building and area was done as a precaution.

The focus now is on identifying the person who made the fake report, police said.

"The London Police Service recognizes the impact these types of investigations have on the community and wants to remind the public that anyone who knowingly makes a false report to police can be the subject of a criminal investigation and be charged," police said in a statement.

"Ensuring public safety and transparency through promptly investigating incidents such as these, proactive crime prevention and fostering community partnerships remain the priority of the London Police Service to reaffirm our commitment to the safety and well-being of all Londoners."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police or Crime Stoppers.