London criminals are using 3D printed guns, warns Met Police detective

A top Metropolitan Police Service detective has said that the force is facing instances of criminals using 3D-printed guns. Detective Superintendent Tim Mustoe called the problem a 'key threat'.

He told media at New Scotland Yard last week: "3D firearms are a key threat for us. It's technology which is evolving very quickly. We're working with the National Crime Agency [...] to ensure that our understanding is good.

"We have an excellent team of scientists who are exploring all of the opportunities around 3D printed firearms. But they are not what keep me up at night when it comes to shootings in London, at the moment.

"I would say we probably seen somewhere in the region of three to four firearms of the 3D printed variety per year." He added that he is not aware any evidence of one being discharged in London before.

READ MORE: Met Police shares 'gang' update on Dalston drive-by shooting

'If you're well networked as a criminal, then you're able to probably get hold of any converted blank firearm'

Detective Superintendent Mustoe also suggested that the ease of getting hold of a blank-firing weapon converted for live ammunition could explain the relative absence of 3D-printed weapons on the streets thus far.

He said: "It does appear that if you're well networked as a criminal, then you're able to probably get hold of any converted blank firearm. Not as easily as getting a pizza, but with the correct network in place. And perhaps that could be why we're not seeing as many 3D-printed guns as initially expected because there is still availability of converted blank-firing weapons.

"And it may be that those who seek to possess firearms who are less well networked in the criminal community would look more towards the 3D printed weapons space."

Gun crime increases overall

Last year, London gun crime increased by just under 20 per cent - rising from 1,009 offences in 2022 to 1,208 in 2023. But the Met says that 'serious' incidents are down.

Commander Paul Brogden said that the force is 'not complacent' and is 'doubling its efforts' to tackle a 'vicious cycle of violence' in the city. He added that guns are most often by gangs to peddle drugs, enforce debt and control territories.

Last year, 386 firearms were seized in the city by officers, including Scorpion sub-machine guns. But the Met says it is going to keep up the pressure on criminals.

Commander Brogden then said he had a 'simple message' for those planning to acquire or use guns in London: "The Met will find you, we'll bring you to justice, we'll convict you and we'll imprison you."

Our London Court & Crime newsletter brings you the latest major court updates and breaking news straight to your inbox. You can sign up HERE.