November 10, 2022
Statement from Justice Minister Kelvin Goertzen on Training Provided by American Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms
On behalf of the Manitoba government, I wish to thank experts from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) for providing valuable training to members of Manitoba’s law enforcement community.
The Manitoba Association of Chiefs of Police, through its organized crime committee, have planned training next week in response to the emerging use of illegally manufactured firearms and 3D-printed firearms in Manitoba. The training event is sponsored by Manitoba Criminal Intelligence Centre, which has arranged for Tyler Herman, a 3D-printed firearms specialist, and Chris Taylor, ATF attaché, U.S. Embassy Canada, to share their expertise with front-line law enforcement and with senior leaders in government next week.
Privately made firearms or ‘ghost guns’ enable criminals to purchase and manufacture firearms that cannot be traced. The use of 3D printers to produce fully functioning handguns is another emerging issue. These training and awareness sessions will provide law enforcement and senior leaders in government with a better understanding of this serious public safety issue.
On Nov. 16, the organized crime committee has arranged for approximately 40 police and law enforcement partners to attend a one-day session on 3D-printed and privately made firearms. The session includes the assembly of a 3D-printed firearm.
3D-printed firearms are an increasing trend in illicit firearms manufacturing in Manitoba. In 2021, two 3D-printed firearms were seized in the province. At least 15 3D-printed firearms have been seized so far in Manitoba in 2022.
Manitoba Justice is examining provincial legislation to address privately made firearms and 3D-printed firearms. It is critical that we continue to work with our partners in a collaborative manner to address criminal gun use in this province.
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