OPP bust 11 as part of Canada-wide 3D gun probe
Posted July 13, 2023 10:57 am.
Last Updated July 13, 2023 10:58 am.
Advanced 3D printing technology is being used to make guns that are being sold to “dangerous offenders,” Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) warned Thursday while announcing a slew of arrests connected to the manufacturing of the untraceable weapons.
The OPP said the probe started in Montreal, ultimately leading to search warrants and arrests across Canada — with 11 people charged with 58 offences across Ontario.
“This investigation began after police became aware of a business that was selling firearm parts,” the OPP said.
Investigators added that the parts aren’t compatible with other guns and are used “exclusively to create personally manufactured firearms.”
Even more troubling, the OPP added, is that the guns are totally untraceable.
“While all prohibited weapons pose serious risks to community safety, this is especially true for personally manufactured firearms. Unlike other firearms, they do not bear serial numbers and cannot be traced.
“They are being manufactured and made available to dangerous offenders who may use them in a criminal offence or to facilitate criminal activity.”
The OPP executed 14 search warrants on June 20, 2023, seizing 10 3D printed guns, 43 partially manufactured guns, 10 3D printers as well as ammunition, bullet proof vests and 1,000 suspected fentanyl pills.
They also seized $33,700 in Canadian cash as well as a cryptocurrency wallet, among other items.
On the same day, search warrants were also executed in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
“Today, our communities are safer because of the collaborative efforts of our policing partners who are working together to reduce the number of personally manufactured firearms being produced and trafficked in communities across the country,” said OPP Det.-Insp. Lee Fulford.
“The accused have demonstrated a blatant disregard for the regulations surrounding firearms, and the OPP is committed to holding them responsible for their actions.”
Addendum of Charged Persons by CityNewsToronto on Scribd
