A weapons factory used to convert blank-firing guns into lethal firearms has been discovered in a raid.
National Crime Agency (NCA) investigators searched an industrial unit in Merton, south London, and found an array of tools and machinery, including parts used in the manufacture of weapons and ammo and blank firers ready to be converted.
Along with several 3D printing machines suspected of being used to make gun components, more than a hundred rounds of live ammunition, around a thousand rounds of blank firing ammunition ready to be converted, and three potentially functioning converted weapons were also recovered, according to the NCA.
The army bomb squad were called in at one point to ensure the safety of the location after a quantity of suspected explosive powder was found.
Officers from the agency’s armed operations unit had earlier recovered in a car what was believed to be a functioning converted weapon and magazines filled with 9mm ammunition.
The seized weapons are now being assessed and analysed by forensic experts.
After being questioned by the NCA, Girdlestone was charged with offences under the Firearms Act. He is expected to appear before Croydon magistrates today (Saturday 20th May).
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Debbie Palmer-Lawrence of the NCA said: “This was a significant operation which uncovered a suspected firearms conversion factory being used to convert blank-firing weapons into lethal guns.
“We know that these types of weapons are in demand by criminals. They are often used in acts of serious violence, as well as being used by crime groups to coerce and intimidate.
“This is why stopping them reaching the streets is a priority for the NCA.”
Evan Girdlestone, 47, from Colliers Wood, will appear before magistrates Croydon on Saturday in connection with the incident, charged with offences under the Firearms Act.
