Drug ring busted in South Carolina as illegal aliens cuffed by Homeland Security Task Force, DOJ says

Task force investigation brings arrests

The DOJ announced the arrests on Tuesday, saying the investigation targeted an alleged drug ring and money laundering scheme. The task force operation resulted in 36 arrests, including nine people who are in the country illegally, the department said.

According to the DOJ, members of the ring had infiltrated South Carolina’s prison system. The department said it would continue efforts against drug trafficking networks.

Authorities seize drugs and weapons

Investigators seized 346 kilograms of fentanyl, 23 kilograms of methamphetamine and 70 kilograms of cocaine. They also recovered 34 pounds of marijuana and 43 firearms. The DOJ said the narcotics were trafficked across the U.S. southern border with Mexico and into South Carolina. The department did not provide further details about the routes or timing.

Cash, vehicles and properties recovered

The investigation also led to the seizure of $2.8 million in cash and jewelry, along with 15 luxury vehicles. Those vehicles included two Rolls Royces, a Lamborghini and an Aston Martin.

Authorities seized 17 properties, which the DOJ said were worth $4 million. The department described the operation as part of its effort to dismantle drug trafficking networks.