Toronto police have announced the seizure of multiple 3D-printed handguns, known as ghost guns, and the arrest of a 28-year-old man in connection with an investigation that uncovered a significant firearms manufacturing operation. Brian Narciso faces 20 charges, including the new offence of possession of data for the purpose of manufacturing a firearm.
Project Cluster Investigation
Police launched Project Cluster in November 2025 after the RCMP alerted them to suspicious online advertisements on a firearms website. Investigators determined that the parts being offered for sale were consistent with those used to assemble functional firearms.
“It is alleged the accused sold a 3D-printed handgun receiver, the core component that legally defines a firearm under the Criminal Code of Canada, along with additional parts needed to complete it,” said Insp. Steve Matthews of the Integrated Gun and Gang Task Force.
On Dec. 9, Narciso was arrested, and search warrants were executed at his residence and vehicle. Police recovered components capable of assembling 24 prohibited firearms, digital evidence, a 3D printer, mobile devices, and proceeds of crime.
Link to Firearm Discharges
The investigation revealed an alleged connection to six firearm discharges between June 28 and Oct. 29, 2025, in the Lawrence Ave. W. and Caledonia Rd. area. Matthews stated that the accused allegedly attended a secluded area and discharged firearms on multiple occasions.
“More than 100 cartridge cases and unspent rounds were recovered, and in one instance a projectile entered a nearby residence,” Matthews said. Forensic analysis linked two of the 3D-printed handguns to three of the October discharges, suggesting the firearms were being tested for functionality.
The community affected is experiencing relief now that charges have been laid, according to Matthews.
Rising Threat of Ghost Guns
Ghost guns are an emerging problem in Toronto, with police seizing ten 3D-printed handguns and 16 3D-printed frames in the last six months. Unlike traditional firearms, ghost guns lack serial numbers and cannot be traced through conventional means.
“One of the challenges is that you can’t trace these through traditional means like you would through firearms bought in a store or smuggled across the border,” said Matthews. He noted that this is a relatively new issue and an emerging trend that police are trying to get ahead of.
It is estimated that it takes approximately six hours to 3D-print a firearm receiver. The other components are purchased separately, and when combined, they create a fully functioning firearm. Investigators are working to determine where the additional parts were sourced.
Matthews alleged that Narciso is working alone, but police are still examining evidence to see if there is a connection to a larger group.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-2510 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
