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.
In May 2023, Tyson Saverio Santolla was charged with the following offences:
• 1 count – Firearms manufacturing
• 3 counts – Possession for the purpose of trafficking
• 1 count – Possession of a restricted firearm without a licence
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.
