In November 2022, the Winnipeg Police Service’s Firearms Investigation and Enforcement Unit (FIEU) entered into an investigation regarding the manufacturing and trafficking of illicit 3D-printed guns. Investigators determined that a criminal network solicited and paid legitimate 3D printer services to manufacture handgun lower receiver assemblies (called receiver blanks).
The 3D-printed receiver blanks were believed to be assembled into functioning “ghost” guns and trafficked within the criminal element.
R220057520
On November 2, 2022, FIEU executed a search warrant at a residence in the 3000 block of Pembina Highway.
During this search warrant, 3D printers, laptops, cellphones and spools of 3D filament were seized. Investigators determined approximately 15 firearm receivers were manufactured.
A 30-year-old male of Winnipeg is facing Weapons Trafficking charges. He was released on an Undertaking as mandated by the Criminal Code.
R220058976
On November 9, 2022, FIEU executed a search warrant at a residence in the 400 block of Tim Sale Drive.
During this search warrant, 3D printers, laptops, cellphones and spools of 3D filament were seized. Investigators determined approximately 7 firearm receivers were manufactured.
A 19-year-old male of Winnipeg is facing Weapons Trafficking charges and was released on an Undertaking as mandated by the Criminal Code.
R220064874
On December 7, 2022, FIEU, a 45-year-old male suspect of Winnipeg, was arrested in relation to 3D-printed lower firearm receivers. He was subsequently released with no charges by Crown authorization.
A lower firearm receiver (known as a receiver blank) is considered a firearm. For consideration, a list of these receiver blanks is published in the Firearms Reference Table (FRT). The practice of manufacturing 3D-printed receiver blanks and the creation of 3d printed ghost guns is illegal.
The FIEU is continuing this investigation. Anyone with information regarding the illicit manufacturing or trafficking of 3D-printed guns can call FIEU at 204-986-3258 or Crime Stoppers at 204-786-TIPS(8477).