Europol has dismantled 10 illegal firearms workshops across Europe.
The operation, which involved law enforcement agencies from 6 countries, resulted in the seizure of over 70 illegal firearms, including assault rifles, 3D-printed semi-automatic submachine guns, pistols, and drill presses. Additionally, over 37,000 rounds of ammunition and explosives precursors were seized.

The total results include:
- 10 arrests (6 in Spain, 1 in Sweden and 3 in the United Kingdom)
- 10 illegal firearms workshops dismantled (in Canada, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom)
- 24 location searches (2 in Canada, 9 in Germany, 2 in Ireland, 5 in Spain, 1 in Sweden, 2 in the Netherlands and 3 in the United Kingdom)
- 49 new investigations initiated (2 in Canada, 9 in Germany, 2 in Ireland, 2 in Spain, 1 in Sweden, 2 in the Netherlands and 31 in the United Kingdom)
- Seizures of:
- 70 illegal firearms, including assault rifles, 3D-printed semi-automatic submachine guns, pistols and drill presses)
- Weapons, including tasers, compressed air/blank firing weapons, crossbows, bayonets and butterfly knives
- Over 37 000 rounds of ammunition, explosives precursors, gunpowder and a grenade launcher
- Weapon parts and components: barrels, silencers and magazines
Europol is continuing to investigate the operation and is working to identify and arrest any outstanding suspects.
Bijay Pokharel
Bijay Pokharel is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Abijita, an independent technology and cybersecurity news publication established in 2017. A specialist in cybersecurity journalism, Bijay covers vulnerability research, malware analysis, enterprise data breaches, digital privacy, and emerging technologies. His work translates complex technical threats into precise, accessible, and actionable intelligence for security professionals and general readers alike. His reporting and investigative coverage are routinely cited and republished across leading technology and security media.



