Published: Friday, July 3, 2009
Drug ring broken up, feds say
SEATTLE -- Federal authorities announced Wednesday that they have dismantled a major drug trafficking ring that operated between Mexico, California and parts of Washington, including Lynnwood.
During the 14-month investigation, dubbed "Operation Arctic Chill," authorities seized more than 19 pounds of methamphetamine, a quarter-pound of cocaine, $60,000, 22 vehicles and 23 guns, according to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Federal agents also said they believe they arrested the ringleader who was responsible for purchasing meth and cocaine in Mexico and California to distribute in Washington.
Authorities said the operation was sophisticated, with drugs being transported along I-5 in vehicles equipped with hidden compartments. The organization also developed a coded language to disguise their criminal activity, authorities said.
During the past two weeks police have raided dozens of locations associated with the drug ring, including locations in Lynnwood. They arrested 31 people, including two suspects from Lynnwood.
The majority of those arrested have been charged with federal drug offenses.
The investigation was led by ICE and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The South Snohomish County Drug Task Force was among several local law enforcement agencies that assisted in the investigation.
During the 14-month investigation, dubbed "Operation Arctic Chill," authorities seized more than 19 pounds of methamphetamine, a quarter-pound of cocaine, $60,000, 22 vehicles and 23 guns, according to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Federal agents also said they believe they arrested the ringleader who was responsible for purchasing meth and cocaine in Mexico and California to distribute in Washington.
Authorities said the operation was sophisticated, with drugs being transported along I-5 in vehicles equipped with hidden compartments. The organization also developed a coded language to disguise their criminal activity, authorities said.
During the past two weeks police have raided dozens of locations associated with the drug ring, including locations in Lynnwood. They arrested 31 people, including two suspects from Lynnwood.
The majority of those arrested have been charged with federal drug offenses.
The investigation was led by ICE and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The South Snohomish County Drug Task Force was among several local law enforcement agencies that assisted in the investigation.
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