How do I gain access to the pump?

The pump motor runs but no water is delivered.

The K-cup top piercing needle is not blocked.

I back flushed the supply line with both air and water; it's not blocked.

To gain access to the pump and motor it's necessary to separate the front and rear outer case halves but it appears that there are diabolically interlocked tabs in the base that are intended to foil DIY attempts.

So, how does one get at the innards of the machine while foregoing the use of brute force?