Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller Season 3 Episode 3 Ghost Guns

Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller is a documentary series that delves into the dangerous and complex world of black markets, uncovering the networks and individuals behind illegal activities such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, and weapons trading. In season 3 episode 3, titled "Ghost Guns," van Zeller explores the phenomenon of untraceable firearms and the impact they have on crime and violence in the United States.

In recent years, "ghost guns" have become a growing concern for law enforcement agencies across the country. These are guns that are manufactured at home or in small shops using parts that are easily and legally available online. Because these guns are not registered and do not have serial numbers, they are untraceable and can be bought and sold without any background checks or government oversight. This makes them attractive to criminals, particularly those who are prohibited from owning firearms.

Van Zeller begins her investigation in Los Angeles, where she meets with a group of activists who are working to combat gun violence in their communities. They show her some of the "ghost guns" that have been seized by law enforcement in the area, including assault rifles and handguns. One of the activists, a former gang member who now mentors at-risk youth, tells van Zeller about the devastating impact that these guns have on young people in his neighborhood.

From there, van Zeller travels to Sacramento, where she meets with a man who sells "ghost gun" kits online. He shows her how easy it is to assemble a gun using these parts, and explains that he believes in the right to bear arms and wants to provide people with a way to protect themselves. However, he also acknowledges that some of his customers are likely using the guns for illegal purposes.

Van Zeller then heads to Virginia, where she meets with a group of gun rights advocates who are pushing for looser regulations on firearms. They argue that the ability to make and own untraceable guns is an important part of the Second Amendment and that the government should not have the power to regulate homemade weapons. Van Zeller challenges their arguments, pointing out that "ghost guns" are fueling violence in cities across the country and asking them whether they would support any sort of controls on these weapons.

Finally, van Zeller travels to Mexico, where she meets with a former cartel member who was involved in the trafficking of weapons from the United States. He explains that "ghost guns" are becoming increasingly popular among drug traffickers because they are easier to smuggle across the border than traditional firearms. He takes van Zeller to a small workshop where illegal weapons are being made, including "ghost guns" that will eventually be used in acts of violence.

Throughout the episode, van Zeller asks tough questions and engages with a range of perspectives on the issue of "ghost guns." She also examines the broader debates around gun control and the Second Amendment, shedding light on a complex and divisive issue that is shaping the future of American society.