Vancouver man charged with firearms smuggling

The logo of B.C.'s Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit, which probes gangs and organized crime, is seen in this image. (Credit: Twitter/cfseubc)

A 24-year-old Vancouver man has is facing multiple charges in connection with an alleged gun smuggling scheme, according to authorities.

The investigation began in June of 2023, when Canada Border Services Agency intercepted packages at the border that contained “firearms components,” a news release from B.C.’s Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit said.

That year, police executed two search warrants – one at a business in Richmond and one at a home in Vancouver – and found evidence “consistent with an alleged sophisticated firearms importation scheme,” the statement from the CFSEU-BC said.

Andy Emre Gencoglu was charged with six offenses on Feb. 27, 2025. The charges are: one count of smuggling a restricted firearm, one count of smuggling a prohibited firearm, one count of smuggling two prohibited devices, two counts of importing a restricted firearm, and one count of importing two prohibited devices.

“Smuggling firearms is a dangerous criminal activity that jeopardizes public safety and fuels violence. CFSEU-BC remains committed to disrupting these illegal networks and protecting our communities from the devastating impact of illegal weapons,” said Cpl. Sarbjit K. Sangha, spokesperson for CFSEU-BC.

Gencoglu has been released on conditions and is due back in court April 15.