Image of items seized. (Photo supplied by the Alberta RCMP)

By Justin Goulet

Alberta RCMP teams with CBSA to halt 3D firearms operation

Mar 24, 2022 | 1:19 PM

STONY PLAIN, AB – The Alberta RCMP and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) recently joined forces to halt an operation involving 3D printed firearms.

On February 16, 2022, CBSA officers at the Vancouver International Mail Centre intercepted a parcel arriving from China that contained a prohibited component for a firearm.

A joint follow-up investigation involving the Alberta RCMP Integrated Border Enforcement Team and CBSA resulted in a search warrant being executed at a home in Parkland County on March 8, 2022. Parkland RCMP and the Alberta RCMP Emergency Response Team assisted.

The following items were seized from the residence:

• Three 3D printed firearms. One was loaded.
• Several partially completed 3D printed handguns.
• Several fully completed firearm magazines.
• A 3D printer and materials used to make 3D printed items.
• Ammunition.
• Firearm suppressor.
• Counterfeit money.

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A 25-year-old man from Stony Plain, who RCMP did not name, has been charged with a total of 13 offences under both the Criminal Code and Customs Act (inclusive of smuggling). Charges include:

• Importing a prohibited device.
• Possession of a prohibited weapon (suppressor).
• Possession of a firearm while prohibited.
• Two counts of breach of probation.

Superintendent Chad Coles, Officer in Charge of K Division’s Federal Serious and Organized Crime – Integrated Border Enforcement Team said, “this is just one example of the great collaborative investigations between the RCMP and CBSA that has lead to the seizure of illegally imported and manufactured firearms and components.”

“The law enforcement community has seen a troubling trend in the increased use of 3D printers to manufacture gun parts. We will continue to investigate these matters to contribute to the public safety we should all enjoy in Canada.”

Following a judicial hearing, the man charged was remanded into custody.