Two men in the UK were convicted after attempting to manufacture submachine guns using 3D printers and selling them to criminal groups.
This case underscores the importance of technical knowledge despite online information availability on 3D-printing firearms.
Security authorities warn of the new risk associated with the production of 3D-printed weapons.
3D Printing: Men in the UK Convicted for Manufacturing and Selling Submachine Guns.
In the UK, two men were arrested and convicted after attempting to manufacture submachine guns using 3D printers and selling them to criminal groups. This case marks one of the first prosecutions of this kind in the country, and security authorities emphasize the relevance and risk of such endeavors.
Case Details:
The suspects, Sibusiso Moyo and Christopher Gill, were convicted of attempting to produce homemade weapons using off-the-shelf 3D printers and supplying them to criminal gangs. Moyo received an 18-year prison sentence, while Gill was sentenced to 13 years and eight months.
The Sheffield Crown Court heard that until the discovery of the scheme in May 2022, six firearms were either 3D-printed or in production. The discovery was made when the police searched a vehicle associated with Gill and found a weapon in a blue bag. This weapon bore the inscription "FGC-9" and the words "live free or die," accompanied by an image of a bleeding arm holding a sword.
During a subsequent search of Gill's home, officers found two more nearly finished FGC9s. At Moyo's residence, two 3D printers and various components for manufacturing the weapons were seized. Additionally, encrypted messages were found in which he listed the necessary parts.
Legal Assessments and Statements:
The prosecution emphasized that despite online information available on 3D-printing firearms, technical expertise is required. Moyo was also found guilty of possessing an identification document with improper intent, as he attempted to order parts for weapon production under a false name.
Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Howard of the Yorkshire and Humber Regional Organized Crime Unit described the investigation as "groundbreaking."
