Student Admits To Making Two Handguns With 3D Printer In His London Flat

A film student today confessed to making two handguns using a 3D printer in the first case of its kind – but claims they were just props for a project. Tendai Muswere, 26, printed a revolver and a handgun using plastic resin at his flat in Pimlico in October 2017. 

The Zimbabwean admitted producing a plastic Washbear revolver as well as a so-called Hexen Pepper-box handgun – both specially designed for 3D printing. He pleaded guilty today, on the basis that he manufactured the guns so he could use them as props in a film project for his course at London South Bank University. Police found the plastic pistols after raiding his home based on information that he was growing cannabis in the flat.

Prosecutor Hugh Forgan said: ‘The Crown are going to ask for time please to put a full written response to the basis of plea. ‘In short, parts off that basis of the plea are uncontentious – he was, at the time, a student.

‘The contentious issue, in a nub, is it is all very well saying you were making a film but why did you need a lethal weapon?’ The firing pin on one of the pistols had been replaced with a more durable copper component, Southwark Crown Court heard. 

There was also evidence that Muswere had been searching for a replacement metal barrel on Amazon. Mr Forgan added: ‘There is no need for a lethal weapon, why had it been adopted?’ There was also evidence that Muswere had been searching for a replacement metal barrel on Amazon (Picture: PA) John Kearney, defending, said: ‘He was arrested initially after police had searched his address and found cannabis plants growing. 

That happened, in fact, on two occasions.’ He said Muswere had pleaded guilty to the drug offences at the magistrate's court. Paramedic held hostage by 999 callers who lied he was having heart attack He added: ‘It is apparent that despite the fact that he was a student and, as he had asserted, studying film at the time, he does have mental health issues.’ 

The barrister also asked for a psychiatric report be prepared for Muswere, who faces a five-year statutory minimum sentence for possession of a prohibited firearm. Judge Jeffrey Pegden, QC, told Muswere: ‘We are going to adjourn your case until the 9th of August. Please keep in touch with your lawyers because there is work to be done in your case.