First Ever UK Conviction for 3D Printed Gun Manufacturing
A 26-year-old man has made history as the first in the UK to be convicted for manufacturing a firearm using a 3D printer. Tendai Muswere, from Tachbrook Street, SW1, pleaded guilty on Wednesday, 19 June at Southwark Crown Court to creating a 3D printed gun.
Police Raid Uncovers Deadly 3D Printed Gun Parts
Back in October 2017, officers raided Muswere’s home and found components capable of firing a lethal shot. Despite not holding a firearms licence, Muswere claimed he was printing the gun as part of a university film project. He insisted he didn’t know the parts could actually fire live ammunition.
Web Searches Reveal True Intentions
During the investigation, police uncovered his internet history showing he’d watched videos on how to 3D print working firearms. His silence on the specifics of the film project only deepened suspicions.
Officers also discovered cannabis plants and evidence of cultivation during the raid. A second search in 2018 yielded more 3D printed gun components.
Detectives Praise Team Effort in Uncovering Crime
“Muswere claimed he was printing the firearms for a ‘dystopian’ film project but never explained why he included parts to build a real, lethal weapon,” said Acting Detective Sergeant Jonathan Roberts of Central West CID.
“We know he planned to reinforce the guns with steel tubes to make barrels that could fire live rounds. This conviction stops a dangerous weapon from getting into criminal hands.”
Sentencing is scheduled for Friday, 9 August at Southwark Crown Court.
