The Winnipeg Police Service says a 31-year-old is facing charges after authorities discovered various 3D printed gun parts and seized a total of 28 firearms.

On May 14, the Winnipeg Police Service's Firearms Investigation Enforcement Unit (FIEU) was informed that man was trying to purchase a prohibited component for an AR-15 rifle from a Winnipeg firearms reseller.

FIEU began an investigation and executed a Public Safety Search Warrant on May 20 in the first 100 block of West Avenue. When arriving at the Westwood neighbourhood, police discovered dozens of firearms on the property.

A total of 28 guns were found. Police discovered an unregistered restricted handgun, 10 registered restricted handguns, and 17 various long guns.

On May 21, at the same address, the WPS executed a Criminal Code Search Warrant. This search warrant was paced to search for evidence regarding manufacturing firearms and components. 

While searching, police found:

  • A 3D printer
  • hard drives
  • memory sticks
  • various gun parts
  • 'cast-off' printed components

Police also discovered a Glock 19 handgun that was totally 3D printed and was fitted with a real Glock upper receiver to make the Glock a functioning firearm.

Police are reporting that while searching, they have been unable to locate one of the suspect's registered handguns. 

A 31-year-old man is being charged with:

  • Weapons Trafficking
  • Possession of a Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
  • Lost Firearm or Weapon Not Reported

The man has been detained in custody by police.

The Winnipeg Police Service is reminding residents that they do not investigate law-abiding, responsible firearms owners and focus their attention to investigate "irresponsible and criminal elements" regarding firearms.