June 7, 2021 – Even as it enforces border measures to limit the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) remains committed to keeping Canada safe from the threat posed by illegal firearms.
Following an extensive investigation, the CBSA announced the arrest of a Toronto resident allegedly engaged in smuggling firearm parts into Canada to manufacture firearms.
In December 2020 and January 2021, border services officers working at the Vancouver International Mail Centre made two seizures of prohibited firearm suppressors that were being sent to an address in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). These seizures prompted an investigation by the CBSA’s Criminal Investigations Section in the GTA region, which indicated that the importer was in possession of, and was manufacturing, illicit firearms in his home.
On April 26, CBSA criminal investigators executed search warrants on two GTA residences, and seized: ten firearms (seven of which were loaded); multiple prohibited devices and weapons, including firearm suppressors; 19 overcapacity magazines; a stun gun; over 600 rounds of ammunition; and, narcotics and cash. A 43-year-old male was arrested by CBSA criminal investigators and charged with 45 charges; 41 of which were in relation to smuggling, manufacturing and possession of firearms or firearm parts.
“This seizure highlights the ongoing work of the CBSA to keep our communities safe,” said Bill Blair, Minister of Public Security and Emergency Preparedness. “The smuggling of firearm parts across our border is a threat to public safety and we remain committed to disrupting these dangerous criminal activities.”
For more information, visit canada.ca.
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