ICE Conducts Major Raid on Cartel-Operated Nightclub, Arresting 72 Migrants Including Homicide Suspect

In a significant operation early Sunday, federal immigration agents raided a nightclub allegedly run by a cartel in South Carolina, resulting in the arrest of over 70 illegal migrants. Among those detained was a Honduran fugitive sought for murder, as reported by the Department of Homeland Security.

The operation targeted The Alamo, an underground nightclub in Summerville, which was bustling with patrons around 3 a.m. at the time of the raid. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, commonly known as ICE, flooded the venue, uncovering firearms, large sums of cash, seven potential victims of human trafficking, and a missing juvenile. Local law enforcement also noted that minors as young as 13 were discovered consuming alcohol inside the establishment.

Cartel Ties and Criminal Charges

The nightclub’s owner, Benjamin Reyna-Flores, has been identified as a suspected member of the Los Zetas Cartel, currently referred to as Cártel del Noreste (CDN). This organization was officially classified as a terrorist group by the Trump Administration in February. Reyna-Flores now faces an array of state and federal charges.

The raid was part of an extensive investigation dubbed “Operation Last Stand.” Officials indicated that the activity at the nightclub has been associated with narcotics, firearms, and human trafficking. The investigation involved around 200 law enforcement personnel from 14 different agencies.

In total, officials made 80 arrests, which included a notable capture of Sergio Joel Galo-Baca, a Honduran illegal alien with an active INTERPOL Red Notice for homicide in Honduras. The operation was led by Homeland Security Investigations based in Charlotte in conjunction with local authorities.

Government Officials Respond

DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, Tricia McLaughlin, praised the operation’s outcomes. McLaughlin emphasized the dedication of ICE agents, stating that the agency collaborates with local law enforcement daily to ensure the safety of American communities. She remarked that under the current administration, fugitives and law-breakers face a clear warning to leave the country or risk deportation.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster echoed McLaughlin’s sentiments and highlighted that members of the Tren de Aragua gang were also apprehended during this operation. He asserted that ongoing criminal investigations, like the recent raid, reflect a commitment to combating years of lax border enforcement.

McMaster expressed his concerns on social media, remarking how open borders have contributed to crime and pledged to continue similar investigations across South Carolina.

Background to the Raid

Charleston County Sheriff Carl Ritchie noted that law enforcement had been amassing intelligence since November. The investigation began following multiple noise complaints that prompted further scrutiny of the establishment. The agents entered The Alamo armed with 116 arrest warrants related to criminal activities and immigration violations. Sheriff Ritchie confirmed that they managed to serve 80 of these warrants, apprehending both citizens and non-citizens.

Among those arrested were two high-ranking cartel members, with Sheriff Ritchie anticipating that this number may increase as investigations proceed. Deputy Administrator Eric Watson described the chaotic scene as a “cartel afterparty,” revealing the level of illicit activity within the venue.

Eyewitness Accounts and Responses

Witnesses at the nightclub recounted moments of panic as agents poured in, issuing commands in both English and Spanish. David Herrera and Destiny Tinoco described a sudden shift from a lively atmosphere to one of chaos. Herrera narrated the scene, observing agents drawing weapons and shouting orders to patrons, ensuring a swift containment of the venue for a duration of one to two hours.

Herrera recounted that patrons approached agents, expressing concerns for their children at home amidst the unfolding situation. Furthermore, Sheriff Ritchie confirmed that many of those arrested face charges that include assault on police officers, resisting arrest, possession of controlled substances, and illegal firearm possession.

A Step Towards Greater Security

This operation has garnered significant attention as part of the government’s broader efforts to address illegal immigration and cartel-related crime in the United States. Authorities are emphasizing the importance of these coordinated operations to disrupt trafficking networks and enhance community security.

With the collaboration of various law enforcement agencies, the successful execution of Operation Last Stand marks an important step in addressing the ongoing challenges posed by organized crime and its connections to migration issues.

The aftermath of this raid highlights the ongoing struggle against the complex interplay of crime and immigration in America. As law enforcement continues to inform the public regarding safety measures and enforcement strategies, the situation remains dynamic and continues to evolve.