07/23/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/23/2024 09:36
In November 2023, the Winnipeg Police Service's Firearms Investigation and Enforcement Unit (FIEU) began investigating the manufacturing and trafficking of 3D-printed firearms.
A crime network approached several local metal fabricators to create components to manufacture Glock-style 3D handguns. Concerns regarding these custom orders were reported to the Winnipeg Police Service.
FIEU, with the assistance of the RCMP-NWEST, the Canada Border Services Agency, Correctional Service Canada and Manitoba Corrections, identified several individuals involved in this criminal operation.
Investigators determined that a 25-year-old male, Blake ELLISON-CRATE, who was in custody and already sentenced, was providing direction regarding the manufacturing and trafficking of 3D-printed guns to the criminal element.
On March 20, 2024, search warrants were executed at four residences in Winnipeg and several individuals were taken into custody.
He was detained in custody.
He was detained in custody.
He was released on an Undertaking.
As a result of this investigation, the following items were seized:
Although only one 3D gun was seized, police believe there are between twelve and twenty of these manufactured 3D handguns currently circulating within the criminal element.
3D-printed guns are illegal to manufacture and sell. As with all firearms, they are considered dangerous and potentially lethal.
Anyone with information regarding illicit manufacturing, trafficking or Possession of 3D-printed guns can call FIEU at 204-986-3258 or anonymously at Crime Stoppers 204-786-TIPS or winnipegcrimestoppers.org
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