Baton Rouge Busts Over 100 in New Drug Enforcement Operation

Baton Rouge Busts Over 100 in Major Drug Enforcement OperationBaton Rouge Busts Over 100 in Major Drug Enforcement Operation Baton Rouge, Louisiana – In a sweeping drug enforcement operation, the Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) has arrested over 100 individuals and seized a significant amount of illegal narcotics. According to BRPD Chief Murphy Paul, the operation, named “Operation Redzone,” targeted individuals and organizations involved in the distribution and sale of illegal drugs in the Baton Rouge area. Over a six-month period, law enforcement officers conducted undercover investigations, surveillance, and controlled drug buys to gather evidence. On Wednesday, August 17, 2023, BRPD executed search warrants at multiple locations throughout the city. Officers seized approximately: * 10 kilograms of cocaine * 5 kilograms of fentanyl * 2 kilograms of heroin * $50,000 in cash * Multiple firearms Over 100 individuals were taken into custody, ranging from street-level dealers to alleged members of organized crime groups. They face charges including possession and distribution of illegal drugs, conspiracy to distribute, and money laundering. “This operation is a major victory in our ongoing fight against drug trafficking,” said Chief Paul. “We are committed to disrupting the flow of illegal narcotics into our communities and holding those responsible accountable.” The BRPD attributed the success of Operation Redzone to collaboration with federal law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “We will continue to work tirelessly to make Baton Rouge a safer place for our citizens and families,” said Mayor-President Kip Holden. “The results of this operation demonstrate that we are not going to tolerate the trafficking and sale of illegal drugs in our community.” The arrested individuals will be arraigned in the East Baton Rouge Parish District Court in the coming days. The investigation is ongoing, and additional arrests are expected.