In a sweeping raid targeting suspected gang members in Los Angeles County, local authorities in conjunction with federal agents arrested 13 individuals last Thursday. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, along with assistance from the FBI and other specialized units, coordinated operations across 18 locations throughout Lancaster and Palmdale, KTLA reports.
The crackdown focused on members of an Antelope Valley street gang suspected to be involved in a spate of violent crimes. Detectives discovered a cache of weapons and illicit substances, confiscating 23 firearms, which included two AK-47 rifles, high-capacity magazines, and a vast array of ammunition. Moreover, substances believed to be C-4 explosives and a mortar were found at one location, according to details revealed by CBS Los Angeles.
The sweep also yielded a significant quantity of narcotics, including methamphetamine, indicative of the severity of the gang's reach into various illegal activities. Those arrested face a slew of felony charges such as possession of a machine gun, possession of a controlled substance while armed, and possession of a destructive device or explosive, among others. All suspects are currently held at the Palmdale Sheriff’s Station with their bail set at zero, pending a court appearance scheduled for March 24, as described in SCV News.
