A suspected arms dealer has been arrested in Madrid after allegedly ordering gun components online and assembling firearms to sell to organised crime.
The Guardia Civil joined forces with US Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for Operation Ciermet after investigators in the States intercepted a parcel bound for Spain containing new pistol barrels.
HSI alerted Spanish firearms investigators, who traced the shipment to the suspect despite his efforts to conceal his identity.
According to the Guardia Civil, he used several false identities to make numerous purchases of essential firearm components from the US and other countries over recent months.
Investigators believe he sourced the parts overseas to circumvent Spain’s strict controls.
Using his technical knowledge and tools, the suspect allegedly assembled fully functioning firearms, mainly pistols, which he subsequently sold illegally.
During the investigation and searches, officers seized seven pistols, a sawn-off shotgun and a rifle.
They also recovered 13 new pistol barrels, five pistol frames, three silencers, 1,400 rounds of ammunition in various calibres and €6,500 in cash.
The investigation was overseen by a court in Majadahonda, Madrid, and forms part of the Guardia Civil’s national plan to combat illegal firearms trafficking.
