The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are ramping up efforts against 3D-printed firearms known as "ghost guns." These functional weapons closely resemble real firearms in design and functionality.
3D-printed guns are hard to trace and unregistered, facilitating their illicit use. Law enforcement warns of the growing threat as these weapons can spread easily and are more challenging for criminals to identify.
Incidents involving 3D-printed firearms are on the rise, and these weapons are being utilized in criminal activities across both Canada and the United States. Security authorities are working to curb this perilous trend and ensure societal safety.
3D-Printed Firearms Pose Growing Threat, Prompting Ontario Police Action.
Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are stepping up efforts to combat so-called "ghost guns" or 3D-printed firearms, as these weapons are becoming a significant concern. People are using 3D printing technology to create firearms that can actually fire bullets.
"Some of these 3D firearms are functional," stated OPP acting Sgt. Rob Lewis.
3D-printed guns closely resemble real firearms in both their functionality and design.
Criminals find it easier to distribute these weapons, and they are harder for law enforcement to trace. "They're untraceable and unregistered so it makes them illegal right off the bat," explained Lewis.
Recently, the OPP, along with city police in North Bay, confiscated loaded 3D-printed handguns, a 3D printer, ammunition, and manufacturing accessories, along with 40 grams of fentanyl. The operation was led by the OPP's Joint Forces Guns and Gangs Enforcement Team. As a result, a 29-year-old woman and a 35-year-old man are facing multiple charges.
3D-printed firearms pose a significant challenge for law enforcement, as they lack serial numbers and are assembled at home. This enables them to bypass metal detectors.
Former OPP commissioner and current CTV News public safety analyst Chris Lewis highlighted the concern that these firearms can be assembled with readily available materials. "It's very frightening that people can just get a printer and plastic and order the specific metal parts that are required and make a gun," said Lewis.
The fact that some 3D-printed guns are made entirely from plastic allows them to evade metal detectors.
Police are witnessing an increase in the use of such firearms in criminal activities. "Definitely seeing more of them in Canada and right across North America," stated Lewis.
Some of these weapons have been linked to murders in the United States and have been used in various shootings in Canada.
Source: CTV News
