Police have dismantled a synthetic firearm manufacturing and suspected trafficking operation following a search a a residence on June 26, in Harbour Grace.

49-year-old John Byrne and 41-year-old Crystal Chislett of Harbour Grace were arrested and are charged with a number of serious criminal offences.

The investigation began on May 30, 2023, when RCMP was alerted by Canada Border Services Agency, of an intercepted package containing firearms parts that were destined for a home in Harbour Grace.

The following items were located and seized from inside the home:

• 16 long guns, some of which were unsafely stored
• A total of 33 handguns, including one prohibited firearm, one restricted loaded firearm, and 27 3D printed firearms in various stages of completion, one of which was 100% complete and capable of firing
• A large quantity of 3D printed magazines
• A large quantity of 3D printed firearm parts
• A 3D printer
• A large quantity of ammunition of various calibers
• 10 prohibited weapons, including knives and brass knuckles
• A ‘Security’ uniform and hard body armour

NTV’s Rosie Mullaley is covering the story, and will have more information at 6:00PM, on the NTV Evening Newshour.