A teenager who used a 3D printer to create a semi-automatic firearm was sentenced to jail after his actions came to light during a police raid.

Owain Roberts, 19, from Pill, Newport, was arrested after authorities discovered that he had built a fully functional gun with parts bought online.

A Dangerous Obsession with Guns and Extremism

At just 17 years old, Roberts purchased materials such as steel barrels, metal rods, and nuts online.

Using these, he crafted the FGC-9, a 3D-printed semi-automatic weapon.

The gun was later tested by firearms experts, who confirmed it was capable of firing.

In addition to the weapon, police discovered disturbing items in his bedroom, including Nazi posters, gas masks, body armor, knives, and potential explosive-making materials.

Roberts was also part of an online group called ‘Domestic Terrorism,’ where he went by the alias Strelok, which translates to “gunslinger” in Russian.

His posts, which included racist and violent content, revealed his extreme views.

Among the messages shared with group members, Roberts expressed a desire to harm Jewish and Muslim individuals, as well as making derogatory comments about left-wing individuals.

A Troubled Past and Remorseful Admission

During the trial, it was revealed that Roberts had briefly joined basic military training in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, and had received some marksmanship training.

However, he dropped out after just five months.

His defense lawyer, Peter Donnison, described him as a “nerd with an interest in mechanical engineering” and emphasized that Roberts was “genuinely remorseful” for his actions.

Roberts admitted to manufacturing parts for a firearm and was sentenced to four years and nine months in prison.

Police Praise for Uncovering the Crime

Following his conviction, police expressed their concerns about the implications of illegal firearms.

PC Tom Meazey from the Gwent Police’s East Serious Organised Crime team commented on the case, stating, “Illegally-held firearms can lead to tragic consequences and devastate innocent people’s lives.”

He added that Roberts had not held a valid firearms certificate and his reckless behavior had placed people at risk.

Fortunately, this type of investigation is rare, and the National Crime Agency (NCA) assisted in uncovering Roberts’ dangerous activities, which could have led to further harm.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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