by Los Angeles, California — Federal agents and local law enforcement swept through illegal gambling hubs known as “casitas” across Southern California, detaining more than 130 people as part of a sweeping enforcement push targeting organized crime, drug trafficking, and gang activity. The coordinated effort unfolded through 36 joint operations and culminated in over 200 arrests, according to officials.
The operation, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, brought together federal, state, and local agencies under a broader initiative aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating across borders and within U.S. cities.
Operation Coast to Coast Expands in December
Authorities said the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office boosted manpower and resources in December for Operation Coast to Coast, a nationwide initiative tied to the Homeland Security Task Force framework. The effort focuses on eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings.
“This initiative is designed to strike at the infrastructure that allows organized crime to profit and expand,” federal officials said, noting the emphasis on coordinated enforcement and intelligence sharing.
During the latest phase, agents filed 92 criminal complaints following the arrest of 223 individuals in the greater Los Angeles area alone.
Large Drug and Firearm Seizures Reported
Search warrants executed during the operation led to the seizure of substantial quantities of illicit drugs and weapons. Authorities confirmed that agents confiscated more than 102 kilograms of fentanyl, 470 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 1.5 kilograms of cocaine. In addition, 29 firearms were recovered.
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Officials also reported the seizure of approximately $3,000 in cash, underscoring the financial activity tied to these operations. One of the warrants was executed outside the United States, highlighting the cross-border nature of some of the criminal networks under investigation.
Illegal ‘Casitas’ Used as Crime Hubs
A major focus of the crackdown involved illegal gambling establishments known locally as casitas. According to investigators, these locations were operated by Los Angeles-area gangs and used as fronts for drug sales, prostitution, and firearms trafficking.
The FBI confirmed that more than 130 individuals were detained at casitas across Los Angeles during the enforcement actions. Additional searches were carried out in nearby communities, including Montclair and San Bernardino, indicating the widespread footprint of these operations.
Gang-Related Arrests Across Long Beach
In Long Beach, investigators arrested alleged members of several street gangs in connection with drug trafficking and firearms violations. The gangs identified by authorities included Florencia-13, Tortilla Flats, and East Side Longos.
Officials also confirmed that at least one individual was arrested for distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) during the operation, marking one of the most serious charges brought as part of the crackdown.
Local and Federal Agencies Join Forces
The FBI credited the success of the operation to close collaboration with local law enforcement partners. Agencies involved included the Los Angeles Police Department, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, among others.
Officials emphasized that such partnerships are essential in addressing complex criminal enterprises that span neighborhoods, counties, and international borders.
Ongoing Efforts to Disrupt Organized Crime
Authorities say Operation Coast to Coast is ongoing, with additional arrests and seizures expected as investigations continue. Law enforcement leaders stressed that illegal gambling sites often serve as entry points for more serious criminal activity, making them a priority for enforcement.
Residents across Southern California are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity, as officials continue efforts to dismantle networks that threaten community safety.
What are your thoughts on this crackdown? Do you think operations like this make a real impact on community safety? Share your views in the comments below.
