The Rise of Ghost Guns: How Criminals Are Evading Tracking

TLDRCriminals are using 3D printers to create untraceable firearms known as ghost guns, posing a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies. Police have seized numerous 3D printed guns across the country, leading to a crackdown on these homemade weapons. However, the availability of computer data and the lack of tracing history make it difficult to determine the origin of these guns. The Canadian government has implemented stricter gun control laws to address the issue, but the online availability of these instructions remains a concern.

Key insights

💥Criminals are using 3D printers to create untraceable firearms known as ghost guns, which poses a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies.

🔍The lack of serial numbers on these homemade guns makes it difficult for police to track their origin and ownership.

🚓Law enforcement agencies across Canada have conducted nationwide busts targeting 3D printed guns, resulting in arrests and seizures.

🧩The availability of computer data and instructions for printing guns online increases the accessibility of ghost guns to criminals.

⚖️The Canadian government has implemented stricter gun control laws to address the issue of 3D printed guns.

Q&A

What are ghost guns?

Ghost guns are untraceable firearms created using 3D printers. These guns do not have serial numbers and are thus difficult to track.

How are criminals obtaining the instructions for 3D printed guns?

Criminals can easily find computer data and instructions for printing guns online, including on the dark web.

What challenges do ghost guns pose for law enforcement?

The lack of tracing history and identifying markings on 3D printed guns makes it challenging for law enforcement agencies to determine their origin and ownership. This hinders investigations and reduces the effectiveness of traditional investigative techniques.

What measures has the Canadian government taken to address the issue of ghost guns?

The Canadian government has implemented stricter gun control laws, including making it a crime to possess computer data related to 3D printed guns and requiring a gun license for purchasing certain metal parts.

Are ghost guns reliable?

While 3D printed guns may not always be reliable due to the materials used, they are still functional and pose a significant threat.

Timestamped Summary

00:00The video begins at an Edmonton Police facility, where firearms expert Larry Snidle demonstrates the creation of a ghost gun using a 3D printer.

03:20Police across Canada have carried out nationwide busts, resulting in arrests and seizures of 3D printed guns.

05:55The Canadian government has implemented stricter gun control laws, but the availability of computer data for 3D printing guns remains a concern.

07:48Forensic Firearms investigator Ebony Lyle Nicholas explains the challenges in tracing 3D printed guns due to the lack of identifying markings.

09:30Although 3D printed guns may not always be reliable, they are still functional and pose a significant risk.