Operation Nayarit Stampede Results Announced by DEA; Operation leads to Numerous Arrests, Seizures

A six-month long investigation related to the dismantling of an extensive drug trafficking cell associated with the Sinaloa Cartel has resulted in numerous arrests and seizures, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) officials announced this week.

“Operation Nayarit Stampede marks an end to an extensive poly drug trafficking organization that stretched across the Mexico border and into Arizona and beyond,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Doug Coleman. “DEA and our partners have taken large quantities of drugs, millions of dollars in drug trafficker assets, and powerful weapons off our streets. We will continue to do everything in our power to bring to justice those who try to poison our communities.”

DEA special agents and detectives from the Tempe Police Special Investigations Bureau initiated a six-month long investigation after Tempe Police Detectives obtained information on possible stash houses in Tempe, Ariz. Detectives learned that a drug trafficking organization was transporting illegal drugs into Tempe, New York, Alabama and California.

In addition to the 20 arrests special agents and detectives made pursuant to the investigation, law enforcement were also able to seize 14 firearms, $2.4 million, three tons of marijuana, 30 pounds of methamphetamine, a Cessna aircraft and ten vehicles.

“This operation demonstrated a collaborative effort by state and federal law enforcement agencies,” said Chief of Police Tom Ryff. “As Chief of Police I am committed to working in partnership with the community, state and federal law enforcement agencies to curtail drug trafficking in the City of Tempe and throughout the valley.”