Former high school friends charged in scheme to smuggle guns into California

Five former California high school classmates are accused of running a years-long gun trafficking scheme that allegedly funneled assault-style weapons and handguns into the state.A federal grand jury indicted Harman Pahal, 21, Cameron Chouanmasay, 20, Colton Malone, 21, Julian Calderon, 20, and Jaskarn Batth, 20 — all of Fresno — on charges tied to an alleged firearms trafficking conspiracy that spanned from December 2024 through April 2026.The five men, who prosecutors say met while attending Bullard High School in Fresno, pleaded not guilty during their arraignment Monday.According to the indictment, the group repeatedly traveled from Fresno to Texas to illegally acquire firearms before bringing them back into California to resell — despite none of the defendants holding licenses to deal, manufacture or import firearms.California's top news, sports and entertainment delivered to your inbox every day.

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Never miss a story Prosecutors allege the group used social media to advertise and sell the weapons, arranging multiple firearm sales through online platforms.During buying trips in December 2024, the defendants allegedly purchased multiple firearms, including Draco-style AK-type pistols and other handguns, before transporting them back to California for resale.The indictment charges all five men with conspiracy, engaging in the business of dealing and manufacturing firearms without a license, interstate travel with the intent to unlawfully deal firearms and illegally importing firearms into California.California Post News: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedInCalifornia Post Sports Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, XCalifornia Post Opinion California Post Newsletters: Sign up here!California Post App: Download here!Home delivery: Sign up here!Page Six Hollywood: Sign up here!If conv...