Drug Trafficking and Firearms Manufacturing Result in Eight-Year Prison Sentence
One man has been sentenced to eight years in prison for possessing drugs for the purpose of trafficking and manufacturing firearms following an investigation by the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of British Columbia (CFSEU-BC).
An investigation led by CFSEU-BC’s Illegal Firearms Enforcement Team (IFET) began in January 2021, targeting the manufacturing of illegal firearms. In May 2021, investigators arrested three individuals and executed search warrants at four locations in Abbotsford and Aldergrove.
During the searches, officers seized significant quantities of drugs, materials associated with the production of controlled substances, and a firearm manufacturing operation utilizing 3D printer technology. (See previous release: 2023-05-25)
In May 2023, Tyson Saverio Santolla was charged with the following offences:
• 1 count – Firearms manufacturing (Section 99(1)(a), Criminal Code of Canada)
• 3 counts – Possession for the purpose of trafficking (Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act)
• 1 count – Possession of a restricted firearm without a licence (Section 92(1), Criminal Code of Canada)
In June 2025, Santolla pleaded guilty to possession for the purpose of trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as manufacturing firearms.
On January 30, 2026, Santolla was sentenced to eight years in prison.
“The combination of illegal firearms and drug trafficking poses a significant danger to public safety. This outcome demonstrates our commitment to removing these threats from our communities and ensuring those responsible face meaningful consequences”, said Sgt. Sarbjit K. Sangha Media Relations Officer of CFSEU-BC.
Sgt. Sarbjit K. Sangha
Media Relations Officer
Royal Canadian Mounted Police with
Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit – British Columbia
media@cfseu.bc.ca
Desk:778-290-2126
Cell: 236-558-0441
