Drug Bust Nets 400 Arrests, $45.2 Million
An almost two-year-long investigation into a Mexican based drug ring has led to the arrest of more than 400 people, the confiscation of more than $45.2 million in cash and the seizure of literally tons of illegal drugs. "Operation Imperial Emperor" targeted the drug trafficking organization of Victor Emilio Cazares-Gastellum, also known as Victor Emilio Cazares-Salazar.
The multi-agency operation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration. During the past 20 months, the agencies seized 27,229 pounds of marijuana, 9,512 pounds of cocaine, 705 pounds of methamphetamine, 227 pounds of pure methamphetamine or "ice," and 11 pounds of heroin.
The investigation has also netted $6.1 million in property and assets, as well as 100 weapons and 94 vehicles.
Stripped of $45 Million in Cash
"Today's actions deal a significant blow to the Victor Emilio Cazares-Gastellum drug trafficking organization, whose members are accused of importing and distributing multi-ton quantities of cocaine and other illicit drugs to communities across the country on a monthly basis," said Attorney General Gonzales, in a news release. "These arrests demonstrate what can be achieved when domestic and international law enforcement partners team up against a common foe."
"The Cazares-Gastellum drug empire that rose to such heights of power in only two years, fell today at the hands of DEA and our partners," said DEA Administrator Karen P. Tandy. "This sprawling drug domain, headquartered in Mexico, penetrated deep into all corners of this country. Today we ripped out this empire's U.S. infrastructure from its commanders and transportation coordinators to its local distribution cells across the country, stripped it of $45 million in cash, and tossed it into the dustbin of history."
"This operation is an example of strong cooperation among multiple international, federal, state and local law enforcement agencies that dismantled a major drug trafficking enterprise operating between the U.S. and Mexico. Despite efforts to conceal their criminal activities, law enforcement prevailed and will continue to pursue criminal enterprises threatening the safety and security of our communities," said Robert. S. Mueller III, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
More than 100 federal, state, local and foreign law enforcement agencies contributed investigative and prosecutorial resources to Operation Imperial Emperor.
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