20 homemade firearms seized in northern B.C. investigation, RCMP say

Mounties in northern B.C. seized more than a dozen 3D-printed firearms in various states of completion while executing a search warrant in connection to a drug trafficking investigation Thursday. (Fort St. John RCMP)

Mounties in northern B.C. seized more than a dozen 3D-printed firearms in various states of completion while executing a search warrant in connection to a drug trafficking investigation Thursday.

The warrant was executed at a property on 105 Avenue in Fort St. John, the local detachment said in a news release Friday.

Members of the Fort St. John RCMP Street Enforcement Team seized approximately 20 firearms “either completed or in progress,” according to the release.

“The Fort St. John RCMP has seen an increase in the seizure of privately manufactured firearms (PMFs) since the late fall of 2025,” the release reads.

“The Fort St. John RCMP is well aware of the threat PMFs pose to community safety, as some of these types of firearms often resemble harmless toys.”

A 37-year-old man was arrested during the search and later released without charges, police said, adding that their investigation is ongoing. They said they expect to recommend “a number of serious charges” to the B.C. Prosecution Service for consideration.

Sgt. Ian Rissanen, who commands the Fort St. John RCMP Plainclothes Unit, said Thursday’s search had “effectively dismantled” the firearm manufacturing operation.

“Since the rise of PMFs last year was noted by the RCMP, SET has been investigating the matter and was able to locate the source of the guns as part of their broader push to stomp out the illicit sale of drugs and influence of organized crime; thanks in part to vigilant community members,” Rissanen said, in the release.

“It’s hard to quantify the impact this warrant execution will have on public safety within our community, but it’s safe to say the impact will be profound.”