Authorities have indicted 11 suspects on drug distribution and weapons charges, while a twelfth individual connected to the group faces illegal weapons possession charges. This action follows a year-long wiretap investigation initiated after officials intercepted a shipment of fentanyl at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
Robert Hammer, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Seattle, described this as the largest coordinated operation of its kind for the HSI Seattle office. On Wednesday, around 600 officers from 10 different agencies executed numerous warrants at locations believed to be linked to the operation.
“These organizations exist for two reasons: to instill chaos and fear in our community, and to make money,” Hammer stated. “Our goal is to eliminate both of these threats.”
During the operation, agents confiscated drugs, firearms, cash, and jewelry, with potential for additional arrests as the investigation continues into the group, which primarily operated from the University District neighborhood.
“They were not only reckless and dangerous but also involved in distributing fentanyl and other harmful substances within our community,” noted SPD Deputy Chief Eric Barden.
Investigators suspect that this group is connected to a fatal shooting at a South Seattle hookah lounge in 2023. Among the seized items were numerous firearms, including illegal Glock switches, which convert standard pistols into automatic weapons. Hammer referred to these modifications as “weapons of death,” highlighting the dangers they pose.
U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington, Tessa Gorman, emphasized that this operation is part of broader efforts to combat trafficking into the United States and to reduce drug use in Washington state. The case involved collaboration between HSI Seattle, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Seattle Police Department, and various other partners.