Costa Rica authorities warn of untraceable 3D-printed weapons

Authorities in Costa Rica are raising alarms over the emergence of “ghost guns” and legal loopholes regarding ammunition. The Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) has confirmed the seizure of functional weapons manufactured using 3D printers and plastic filaments. These weapons are particularly concerning to investigators because they lack serial numbers and other identifying data, making them impossible to trace.

Additionally, the OIJ highlighted a significant gap in the current Arms and Explosives Law. Following the seizure of a military-grade FAL rifle from a criminal suspect, investigators noted that the 7.62 x 51 mm ammunition used by such weapons can be legally purchased by anyone with a registered firearm. This allows criminal groups to acquire ammunition through straw purchasers or via the illegal diversion of legally purchased supplies, prompting calls to strengthen ammunition traceability.