An undercover investigation led the Bridgeport Police Department's Violent Crime Initiative team to seize a slew of illegal handguns and arrest several suspects, according to authorities.

Among the confiscated guns was a fully automatic machine pistol, which is prohibited by city, state and federal law. 

Along with the weapons, police seized cocaine and heroin. 

Relatives of Joseph Meyers, who police say was shot to death three years ago with an illegal handgun, applauded the news. Meyers was killed in the city's East End, the same area where police seized the guns.

"I love it and I wish they could continue finding guns," says Jackie Webster, who was engaged to Meyers. "Every gun they find, I'm happy, and I smile. If I can get out here to help them find guns, I will."

Bridgeport Police Chief AJ Perez says seizing illegal guns is among the department's top priorities. He says residents shouldn't have to live in fear of gun violence.