19 Arrested, 2 Detained for Importing Firearm and Imitation Firearm Parts into Korea

Three Firearms and 338 Imitation Firearms Seized

The Joint Response Team for Preventing the Distribution of Homemade Firearms announced on January 9 that it had apprehended 19 individuals involved in the manufacture and distribution of homemade firearms, with 2 of them being taken into custody.

National Police Agency

Since September of last year, the Joint Response Team has been investigating high-risk individuals involved in the illegal manufacture and distribution of firearms in Korea. The Korea Customs Service and the National Intelligence Service conducted detailed analyses of customs clearance records for firearms, related parts, and tools for firearm production purchased through overseas direct purchases, as well as intelligence related to terrorism. During the investigation, the police seized a number of items, including 3 firearms, 338 imitation firearms, 272 scopes, various firearm parts, bladed weapons, and explosives.

The Korea Customs Service plans to thoroughly block the smuggling of firearms and related parts subject to regulation under the Firearms and Explosives Control Act by strengthening X-ray inspections and conducting rigorous checks at entry points. For items not subject to regulation but potentially usable for firearm production, a dedicated information analysis team will be formed to closely examine import records and cooperate with the police.

The Joint Response Team stated, "Going forward, we will continue to share and analyze relevant information between government agencies to conduct further investigations targeting high-risk individuals, and we will also pursue institutional improvements to effectively block the manufacture and distribution of homemade firearms."