Toronto police say a months‑long investigation into the manufacturing and trafficking of “ghost guns” has led to the arrest of a 28‑year‑old man and the seizure of dozens of prohibited firearm components, 3D‑printed weapons, and digital files capable of producing untraceable guns.
The case — part of Project Cluster, launched in late 2025 — marks one of the most significant privately manufactured firearm investigations undertaken by the Toronto Police Service (TPS), and includes charges under a new Criminal Code offence targeting the possession of computer data used to build illegal guns.
Police say the investigation began in November 2025, when the RCMP alerted authorities in Toronto to suspicious online advertisements posted on a firearms‑related website. The listings appeared to offer parts commonly used to assemble privately manufactured firearms.
“They function just as a traditional handgun would work,” said Inspector Steve Matthews of the Integrated Gun and Gang Task Force.
Investigators identified the seller as Brian Narciso, 28, of Toronto, and developed what police describe as a “comprehensive investigative plan” with support from the Ministry of the Attorney General.
“In this case, right now, I believe he’s working alone, but we’re still looking at evidence to see if there’s anything else that links him to being part of a larger group,” Insp. Matthews noted.
Search warrants uncover 3D‑printed guns, parts for 24 prohibited firearms
On Dec. 9, 2025, officers executed search warrants at Narciso’s home and in associated vehicles. Inside, they found completed firearms, including 3D‑printed handguns, components capable of assembling 24 prohibited firearms, a 3D printer, digital storage devices and computer systems, mobile devices and alleged proceeds of crime.
Insp. Matthews said that between June 28 and Oct. 29, 2025, six firearm discharge incidents were reported in North York’s Lawrence Avenue West and Caledonia Road area.
Police allege Narciso travelled to a secluded location and discharged firearms on multiple occasions, leaving behind more than 100 cartridge casings and unspent rounds. In one case, a projectile entered a nearby home.
“These are not theoretical concerns. These are real-life firearms being used in our communities,” said Insp. Matthews.
According to police, Narciso allegedly sold a 3D‑printed handgun receiver — the core component that legally defines a firearm — along with additional parts needed to complete the weapon.
Forensic testing linked several incidents to the same weapon. Further analysis determined that two 9mm 3D‑printed handguns seized during Project Cluster were forensically connected to three shooting incidents in October 2025.
Narciso faces a wide range of charges, including, but not limited to, firearm trafficking and possession of data for the purpose of manufacturing a firearm (new offence under s.102.1).
The accused appeared in court on Feb. 26, 2026.