In a major clampdown on drug trafficking in Stephens County, GA, authorities from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the GBI Metro Gang Task Force and the FBI North Georgia Major Offenders Task Force, executed a search warrant operation that led to the arrest of 20 individuals and the seizure of narcotics and firearms. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation confirmed that the operation was the culmination of a year-long probe into a drug trafficking organization allegedly helmed by Manathan Colbert.
Investigations pointed to Colbert's DTO being a major source of the illicit drug supply in Stephens, Habersham, and Rabun Counties, spreading cocaine, crack, marijuana, and prescription pills across the region, the operatives worked tirelessly over the course of more than 12 months to map the network and its operators; this led to the simultaneous execution of six search warrants and 20 arrest warrants. Among those arrested, Colbert faces a litany of charges, including multiple counts under the Violation of Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act and the Georgia Street Gang and Terrorism Prevention Act. Others arrested face similar charges related to drug trafficking and illegal use of communication for criminal activities.
According to the GBI, the goods confiscated in the raids included approximately 29 pounds of marijuana, 5 ounces of cocaine, 6 grams of crack cocaine, 45 pills in their original packaging, 19 oxycodone pills, and 59 firearms. The authorities believe these arrests will have a significant impact on drug trafficking in northeastern Georgia, although they did indicate that the investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are expected.
Law enforcement has praised the operation as a model of inter-agency collaboration, involving the FBI, GBI, local Sheriff's Offices, and the Georgia State Patrol, among others, and they have issued a call to the public for any further information related to drug or gang activities—individuals with such information are encouraged to reach out to the GBI at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), through their online tip submission platform, or via the "See Something, Send Something" mobile app.
