Authorities in Pennsylvania have charged a Philadelphia man with six felony offenses related to the trafficking of “ghost guns,” or firearms without serial numbers. The announcement, made during a joint press conference, identified Zairre Hamlett, 25, as the primary suspect. He faces serious allegations stemming from a multi-agency investigation that has been ongoing for several months.
Hamlett was arraigned by the Philadelphia Police, with bail set at $600,000. Investigators allege that he has been involved in numerous illegal sales of these unserialized firearms since October 2023. Surveillance operations reportedly documented multiple transactions involving five pistols, all of which lacked serial numbers. Two of these firearms were allegedly modified with illegal machine-gun conversion switches, raising further concerns about their potential use in violent crimes.
Investigation Uncovers Significant Evidence
A search warrant executed at Hamlett’s residence on Dauphin Street revealed additional firearms, including a 3D-printed weapon, ammunition, and materials consistent with at-home firearm manufacturing. Dave Sunday, a spokesperson for the investigation, highlighted the dangers posed by ghost guns, noting they are specifically designed to evade law enforcement tracking.
The collaborative nature of this investigation involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Officials emphasized that this case illustrates their efforts to dismantle illegal firearms pipelines before these weapons can be employed in violent acts.
Law Enforcement Reacts to Potential Threat
Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin J. Bethel stated that every firearm removed from circulation represents a potential act of violence averted. Similarly, Abington Township Police Chief Patrick Molloy described the alleged operation as an active trafficking effort that was disrupted through sustained interagency cooperation.
The case will be prosecuted by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Drug Strike Force Section. It is important to note that all charges against Hamlett are allegations. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This incident highlights the growing concern over ghost guns in urban areas, as authorities continue to combat illegal firearms trafficking and its ties to broader criminal networks. As the investigation progresses, officials remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure public safety.