Niagara police charge man accused of manufacturing, trafficking guns

A Niagara Falls man accused of manufacturing and trafficking firearms is facing multiple charges after police seized nine guns and other firearm accessories.

Niagara police launched the investigation in September and were able to identify a suspect.

Detectives found and arrested 30-year-old Zachary Joseph Sawada on Thursday.

Investigators then carried out a search warrant at Sawada’s home in the area of Dixon Street and Orchard Avenue in Niagara Falls, where they recovered eight rifles, one handgun, several rounds of ammunition, two 3D printed receivers to a handgun, among other items.

Sawada, who also goes by the name “Bear”, has been charged with seven offences related to manufacturing and trafficking firearms.

He was held in custody for a video bail hearing at a St. Catharines courthouse Friday.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact investigators at 905-688-4111, option 3, ext. 1009483.

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