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NEWS | April 1, 2025

NCIS Participates in Multiagency Takedown of Drug Trafficking Network

"NCIS remains committed to working closely with our partners to disrupt, deter, and dismantle transnational organized criminal networks that distribute dangerous illicit narcotics that threaten the safety of our service members and their families.


San Diego – NCIS Resident Agency San Diego and the Homeland Security Investigations San Diego Fentanyl Abatement and Suppression Team executed a search warrant in Escondido, California, last week as part of a large-scale takedown operation in support of a broader investigation into an Escondido-based drug trafficking organization involved with distributing large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and Adderall.

More than 150 federal, state and local law enforcement officials arrested 16 defendants and executed 16 search warrants in Escondido, San Diego, Orange County, and Roanoke, Virginia, as part of the operation.

Over the past 16 months of the multiagency investigation, authorities have confiscated more than 2 kg of fentanyl; more than 53 kg (over 116 pounds) of methamphetamine; substantial quantities of cocaine and Adderall; nine firearms; body armor; large capacity magazines; and ammunition.

Crimes charged in the indictments include drug trafficking, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and conspiracy to commit money laundering offenses.

The operation included representatives of NCIS, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, California Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration, Escondido Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, San Diego Police Department, San Diego Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations, U.S. Marshals Service, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.