Police officers from the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU) seized a significant number of firearms while executing a search warrant at a residence in Montréal's Saint-Laurent borough on March 13. Brandon Mark, 27, of Montréal, was arrested and charged.
A total of 16 firearms were seized, including two Glock-style Polymer 80s and several AR-15 assault-style firearms, as well as eight prohibited magazines. According to the National Weapons Enforcement Support Team (NWEST), which collaborated on the investigation, some gun parts appeared to have been made using a 3D printer.
Significant quantities of suspected synthetic drugs, a 3D printer and $44,000 in cash were also seized.
As part of the same investigation, the RCMP's Clandestine Laboratory Enforcement and Response Team dismantled a clandestine laboratory likely used for the production of synthetic drugs.
Multiple charges
Brandon Mark appeared at the Montréal courthouse on March 15 for a number of charges, including possession of prohibited or restricted firearms with ammunition, possession of prohibited firearms for the purpose of trafficking, unauthorized possession of prohibited devices and careless storage of firearms. He remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.
Curbing the proliferation of firearms in Canada
The RCMP helps combat firearms on a multitude of fronts, including by investigating firearm and firearm part imports in collaboration with its national and international partners. Various mechanisms are in place to detect and disrupt the illegal activities of criminal groups or individuals. If you have any information about illegal possession or trafficking of firearms or other illicit activities, contact the RCMP at 1-800-771-5401.