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Pokémon GO hides Sandshrew at police station with hilarious results

"Please be advised that you don't actually have to step inside."

GPS-based augmented reality game Pokémon GO is out now in Australia and New Zealand, sending prospective Pokémon Trainers to all sorts of real world locations seeking invisible monsters. One such locale is the Darwin Police Station in Australia where the Sandshrew is hidden. This has led to players shuffling in and out of the station to the point where the Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services had to address the issue on Facebook.

"For those budding Pokémon Trainers out there using Pokémon Go - whilst the Darwin Police Station may feature as a Pokéstop, please be advised that you don't actually have to step inside in order to gain the Pokéballs," the government agency stated.

"It's also a good idea to look up, away from your phone and both ways before crossing the street. That Sandshrew isn't going anywhere fast.

"Stay safe and catch 'em all!"

We're still waiting for Pokémon GO to premiere in the west, but there is a workaround to get it early in the UK and US for those using Android devices. Should you go that route, here's the UK pricing for its microtransactions.

A word of warning though: early reports claim that Pokémon Go can be a huge strain on your phone's battery. This won't be a problem if you encounter an emergency next to the Darwin Police Station, but for anywhere else you'd best be vigilant of your mobile's charge.

Playing Pokémon Go? Check out our Pokémon Go guide and beginner's tips to get the most out of finding Pokémon, catching them and leveling up.