Federal agents have dismantled over 350 online platforms importing illegal gun conversion kits from China, striking a blow against the rising threat of machine gun conversion devices.
At a Glance
- Over 350 website domains used for importing illegal gun parts from China were seized by federal authorities
- The operation targeted switches and silencers that convert semi-automatic pistols into fully automatic weapons
- Seizures included 700+ machine gun conversion devices, 87 illegal suppressors, and 95 firearms
- The Department of Justice is seeking help from the 3D printing industry to combat the spread of these devices
- Seizures of machine gun conversion devices increased by over 500% between 2017 and 2021
Major Crackdown on Illegal Gun Part Importation
In a significant move to enhance public safety, federal agents have successfully dismantled a network of online platforms facilitating the import of illegal gun conversion kits from China. The operation, led by federal authorities in Boston, resulted in the seizure of over 350 internet domains used for the illegal importation of switches and silencers.
These devices, known as switches, are designed to convert semi-automatic pistols into fully automatic machineguns, while silencers suppress the sound of firearm discharges. Both items are strictly regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA), with their importation and possession from certain countries, including China, being prohibited.
Uncovering the Illegal Operation
The investigation revealed a sophisticated scheme to evade detection. Undercover purchases confirmed the sale of illegal switches and silencers on these domains. The contraband items were shipped from China to the United States with false descriptions to conceal their true nature and bypass import restrictions.
“We need to engage software developers, technology experts, and leaders in the 3D printing industry to identify solutions in this fight,” Monaco said. “You know your industries and this technology better than anyone.”
The operation’s success highlights the ongoing challenge faced by law enforcement in combating the proliferation of illegal firearms and accessories. Many of the seized domains were also found to be trafficking counterfeit goods and unlawfully using the Glock, Inc. trademark, further complicating the legal landscape surrounding these activities.
A Growing Threat to Public Safety
The seizure of these websites comes amid growing concern over the rising prevalence of machine gun conversion devices (MCDs) in the United States. Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco has announced joint efforts between the Department of Justice and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to address this escalating threat.
“They’re cheap. They’re not hard to manufacture, often with 3D printers. And they’ve been proliferating for years,” Monaco said. “Given the clear danger MCDs pose to our communities, today, I am issuing a Department-wide directive, and we are taking action to confront this rising threat.”
Statistics show a alarming trend, with seizures of MCDs increasing by over 500% between 2017 and 2021. These devices, often small and made of plastic, can be produced with 3D printers, making them particularly challenging to track and regulate.
Collaborative Efforts to Combat the Threat
In response to this growing menace, the Department of Justice and ATF are forming the Action Network to Terminate Illegal Machinegun Conversion Devices (ANTI-MCD) committee. This initiative will involve a comprehensive approach, including enhanced training for law enforcement on detecting and responding to MCDs, the appointment of a national MCD coordinator, and directives for district attorneys to prioritize MCD enforcement and prosecution.
The success of these efforts is already evident in states like Oklahoma, where prioritizing MCD prosecutions led to 40 individuals being charged in less than a year. As one official noted, “Switches aren’t appearing like they used to on [Oklahoma] streets or on social media.”
As federal authorities continue their crackdown on illegal gun modifications, the involvement of the technology sector, particularly the 3D printing industry, will be crucial in developing effective countermeasures against the production and distribution of these dangerous devices.
