News Summary
Operation Last Stand resulted in the arrest of 80 individuals linked to illicit activities at the Alamo nightclub in Summerville. Over 200 law enforcement agents participated in the operation, which uncovered narcotics, firearms, and rescued minors who may be victims of human trafficking. The nightclub owner was arrested, and the venue has been permanently closed due to ongoing criminal issues. This decisive action highlights continued efforts against drug trafficking and human trafficking in the state.
South Carolina – A major law enforcement operation, dubbed “Operation Last Stand,” successfully culminated early Sunday morning, June 1, 2025, at the Alamo nightclub in Summerville. The operation involved over 200 federal, state, and local agents and led to the arrest of at least 80 individuals, the recovery of narcotics, firearms, and the rescue of a missing juvenile.
Conducted just after 3 a.m., the operation targeted the nightclub, which has been linked to drug cartel activities and was reported to host what has been described as a “cartel afterparty.” Approximately 200 patrons were present when law enforcement executed the operation, utilizing approximately 60 state agents from various units, including SLED’s dog fighting unit and SWAT.
Operation Last Stand involved the execution of 116 pre-existing arrest warrants, resulting in the apprehension of 80 people, both citizens and non-citizens. Among those detained, 66 were found to be in the U.S. illegally, and five had existing criminal warrants. Notably, two individuals arrested during the operation were identified as high-ranking members of notorious drug trafficking organizations, specifically affiliations with the Los Zetas and Tren de Aragua gangs. Additionally, one suspect was wanted by INTERPOL for charges of murder in Honduras.
Throughout the operation, agents also rescued 10 juveniles under the age of 21, with the youngest among them being just 13 years old. Some of these minors are reportedly potential victims of human trafficking, and they are receiving assistance from law enforcement and child protection services. Agents seized a variety of illegal items during the raid, including guns, cocaine, an undisclosed controlled substance—which is currently undergoing testing—and a significant amount of cash. Moreover, four vehicles believed to be involved in drug-related activities were taken into custody, pending the issuance of search warrants.
The owner of the Alamo nightclub, 59-year-old Benjamin Reyna-Flores, was also among those arrested. He faces multiple charges associated with the unlawful operation of the venue, including the sale of alcohol without a valid permit. In light of the extensive criminal activities linked to the club, county authorities have permanently closed the Alamo nightclub.
This operation did not occur in isolation; it follows months of investigations into the Alamo nightclub, which began in November 2024, driven by numerous noise complaints and reports of illegal activities at the venue. The nightclub was already operating without a valid license and faced several complaints over time related to its operations.
Following the successful execution of “Operation Last Stand,” South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appeared at a news conference to criticize current immigration policies while drawing connections between the nightclub raid and ongoing drug trafficking issues within the state. Law enforcement officials noted that the investigation remains active, and they anticipate more arrests related to gang affiliations in the coming weeks.
The noteworthy efforts of local, state, and federal agents during this operation showcase a significant crackdown on illegal activities, signaling ongoing strategies to combat drug cartels and human trafficking networks impacting communities in South Carolina.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- ABC News 4: Inside Operation Last Stand
- NewsNation: South Carolina Illegal Club Raid
- South Carolina Daily Gazette: Police & ICE Arrests
- Post and Courier: Alamo ICE Raid
- Wikipedia: Immigration Enforcement in the United States
