Columbus, GA — A massive 60-day drug and crime operation conducted by the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) has resulted in 47 arrests, the seizure of over $2 million worth of drugs, and the confiscation of 37 firearms, authorities announced Monday.
Operation Targets Drugs, Violent Crime, and Child Exploitation
Suspects arrested during the sweep face charges including:
- Murder
- Attempted murder
- Drug trafficking
- Sexual exploitation of children
Sheriff’s deputies executed 22 search warrants across the city, uncovering both narcotics and illegal weapons in the process.
Major Drug Seizures Detailed
In total, the operation removed the following from circulation:
- 179.7 lbs. of marijuana — estimated value $815,280
- 11.4 lbs. of methamphetamine — estimated value $521,320
- 20.2 lbs. of cocaine — estimated value $918,300
- 153 grams of fentanyl — estimated value $63,600
- 145 grams of ecstasy — estimated value $3,950
- 49 grams of heroin — estimated value $19,600
Authorities also seized $143,194.81 in cash, 37 firearms, and 18 vehicles now pending forfeiture.
The combined street value of the drugs seized during the operation totals $2,342,050.
Law Enforcement: “Community is Safer Tonight”
Sheriff’s officials emphasized that the effort was aimed not only at disrupting drug trafficking but also at reducing violent crime and removing dangerous offenders from the streets.
“We have taken drugs, guns, and dangerous individuals out of our neighborhoods,” MCSO stated. “Our community is safer tonight because of this operation.”
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, with additional arrests and charges possible as evidence is processed. Some of the firearms recovered are believed to be connected to unsolved violent crimes in the area.
Do you think large-scale sweeps like this have a lasting impact on community safety? Share your opinion in the comments below at the BethelAdvocate.
