The federal operation targets a crime ring in South Florida, with 31 people arrested in gun and drug trafficking incidents
MIAMI – Two months of federal crackdown in South Florida has arrested 31 individuals and led to dozens of illegal firearms and drug seizures.
The effort, dubbed “Operation Showdown,” was launched in April by the Alcohol Department, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), to combat violent crimes and illegal trafficking of guns and drugs throughout Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. The Multi-Agency Initiative has deployed ATF personnel from across the country to work with federal and local law enforcement partners.
Authorities seized 80 firearms, including automatic and semi-automatic weapons, rifles, handguns and machine gun conversion devices, featuring 900 rounds of ammunition. The surgery confiscated about 10 kilograms of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, cracks, oxycodone, and other drugs.
“Drugs and guns continue to promote violence that threatens the safety of our communities,” said U.S. lawyer Obirn. “By prosecuting violent offenders, we work closely with the ATF and other law enforcement agencies to send a clear, unified message that South Florida is defined by safety and justice rather than fear.”
A special agent of the ATF, responsible for Gordon Mallory, added that the operation demonstrated long-term enforcement outcomes and highlighted the importance of reducing violent crime by targeting repeatedly criminals and illegal firearm traffickers.
The arrests were made possible with the support of several local agencies, including the former US S-Service, the Drug Enforcement Agency, Homeland Security Investigation and the Broward Sheriff’s Office, Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office and the Fort Lauderdale Police Department.
Federal claims have been filed in 19 cases involving residents of Miami-Dade and Broward County. Prosecutors at the U.S. Lawyer’s Office handle cases that include firearm possession, human trafficking and drug distribution. The case falls under the umbrella of Take Back America, a Department of Justice initiative aimed at dismantling cross-border criminal organizations and reducing violent crime through partnerships between a federal government task force and local agencies.
All defendants are presumed to be innocent unless proven guilty in court.
