Vancouver man charged in 'sophisticated' scheme smuggling gun parts from the U.S., police say
A Vancouver man has been accused of running a "sophisticated" firearms scheme involving imported gun parts from the U.S., according to the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of B.C.
Andy Emre Gencoglu, 24, is facing six firearm-related charges, including one count of smuggling a restricted firearm and two counts of importing a restricted firearm knowing it's unauthorized.
None of the allegations have been proven in court. Gencoglu has been released from custody on conditions, including that he not possess any weapons. He is scheduled to appear in court on April 15.
"This was a very sophisticated importation scheme that this person has created," Cpl. Sarbjit Sanga told CBC News.
"Smuggling firearms is a dangerous criminal activity that jeopardizes public safety and fuels violence."
Sanga said, in June 2023, the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) seized packages at the U.S.-Canada border that were confirmed to contain firearms parts imported from the U.S.
"Combating gun smuggling and investigating those who break our laws is part of the Canada Border Services Agency's commitment to Canadians," said CBSA criminal investigations assistant director Harald Wuigk in a statement.
Police then conducted a search warrant at a Richmond autobody shop and seized two firearms.
10-year firearm ban
"This business didn't have a direct involvement with this importation scheme, However, it was being used by our accused to get his packages to this body shop," Sanga said.
In November 2023, officers conducted another search warrant at the Vancouver home where Gencoglu lived, according to Sanga. She said officers found further evidence of the alleged gun importation scheme but could not provide more details.
Sanga said police believe that he was acting alone in this alleged operation.
In May 2024, Gencoglu was handed a nine-month conditional sentence and a 10-year firearms ban after he was found guilty of carelessly using or storing a firearm.
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