News Summary
A major law enforcement operation in Summerville, South Carolina, led to the arrest of over 80 individuals at the Alamo nightclub. Dubbed ‘Operation Last Stand,’ the raid targeted organized crime, resulting in the apprehension of high-ranking cartel members and significant seizures of drugs and firearms. Authorities emphasize the operation’s focus on community safety, aiming to combat the influence of drug cartels in the region.
South Carolina Raid Targets Cartel Activities
In a significant law enforcement operation early Sunday morning, June 1, 2025, over 80 individuals were arrested at the Alamo nightclub in Summerville, South Carolina. This event, officially dubbed “Operation Last Stand,” involved approximately 200 agents from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, marking a decisive move against organized crime in the area.
Details of the Operation
During the raid, law enforcement officials apprehended two individuals identified as high-ranking members of the Los Zetas and Tren de Aragua drug cartels. Additionally, 66 of those arrested were found to be residing in the United States illegally, while five individuals had outstanding criminal warrants. Among the detained was a murder suspect from Honduras, wanted by INTERPOL.
The operation executed 116 previously filed arrest warrants. Authorities conducted identification checks for everyone in attendance, which numbered approximately 200 individuals at the nightclub. Alongside the arrests, law enforcement recovered at least ten juveniles under the age of 21, including a missing 13-year-old, who have since been returned to their parents. Some arrested individuals are believed to be victims of human trafficking and are currently receiving assistance from social services.
Seizures and Charges
The operation resulted in the seizure of firearms, a large quantity of cocaine, an unknown controlled substance—which is currently undergoing testing—and significant amounts of cash. Authorities also confiscated four vehicles linked to drug-related offenses, which are awaiting further investigation.
The nightclub owner, Benjamin Reyna-Flores, was arrested and charged with various liquor law violations, including the unlawful storage and sale of alcoholic beverages without the necessary permits. Following the raid, county code enforcement sealed the Alamo nightclub to prevent it from operating as a bar in the future.
Background and Context
The investigation into the Alamo nightclub began in November 2024 amid complaints about noise and illegal activities occurring in the parking lot. Officials emphasized that the operation’s focus was not strictly on immigration enforcement; rather, it aimed to restore safety and eliminate threats to the Summerville community.
The significance of the operation drew high-level attention, with South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and Attorney General Alan Wilson participating in a post-raid press conference. Governor McMaster pointed to the Biden administration’s immigration policies as a contributing factor necessitating such operations.
Following the arrests, individuals who were determined to be in the U.S. illegally were transported to the CE Processing Center in Folkston, Georgia, while legal residents were booked into the local detention center. Law enforcement officials have indicated that this operation is merely the beginning of a larger initiative aimed at confronting criminal activities throughout South Carolina, particularly focusing on drug trafficking and organized crime.
In conclusion, “Operation Last Stand” reflects a coordinated effort among various law enforcement entities to combat the presence of drug cartels and related activities within the state. As investigations continue, officials remain committed to addressing the challenges posed by organized crime and ensuring the safety of local communities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- ABC News 4: Inside Operation Last Stand
- Wikipedia: Organized Crime
- WACH: Inside Operation Last Stand
- Google Search: Operation Last Stand Summerville
- KFOX: ICE and CCSO Conduct Operation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Drug Trafficking
- SC Daily Gazette: Raid Arrests 80
- Google News: Summerville nightclub raid
