Mounties say major Chase bust last week shut down operation manufacturing 3D-printed guns, explosives

KAMLOOPS — RCMP are saying more about an investigation that led to the bust of a major guns and explosives manufacturing operation in Chase last week.

In a news release issued Tuesday (April 29), Supt. Jeff Pelley says the Kamloops detachment’s Targeted Enforcement Unit (TEU) began its investigation earlier this year.

“Over the past few months, our TEU has undertaken a comprehensive, intelligence-led investigation aimed at severing one of the supply chains of illicit firearms in our community,” said Pelley. “This project involved a multi-phased enforcement and collaborate approach to impact violence involving firearms, which have been instrumental in fueling the local drug trade conflict over the past year.”

Last Tuesday, TEU members teamed up with Chase RCMP and the Southeast District Emergency Response Team (SED ERT) to storm a home on Third Avenue in Chase. There they found multiple guns, ammunition, explosives, body armour and a 3D printer and accessories used to make guns illegally.

Media have been invited to view some of the seized items Thursday (May 1).

In the process of storming the home, Mounties deployed a chemical irritant, having warned neighbours in advance.

“We appreciate the community’s support and understanding during our presence in the area,” said Sgt. Kevin McIntyre of the Kamloops TEU. “This enforcement action is expected to significantly disrupt illegal firearms trafficking and reduce gun violence throughout the Thompson and Okanagan districts. Our officers have been working tirelessly to enhance community safety across the Kamloops region, regardless of where the suspects may be located.”

RCMP say charge recommendations are anticipated.