The U.S. Justice Department has announced a major crackdown on organized crime in Puerto Rico, with 81 alleged members of a violent drug trafficking organization facing federal charges.
Authorities said the operation targeted a criminal group known as Los Baja Deo, which had allegedly operated for years across Puerto Rico’s western region. Federal officials accuse the organization of drug trafficking, firearms violations and involvement in a series of violent crimes.
The announcement was made in San Juan as federal authorities highlighted their continuing efforts to disrupt gangs and criminal organizations linked to drug distribution and violence.
Federal Operation Targets Alleged Gang Members
According to federal authorities, 70 defendants were taken into custody during the operation, which was led through a Homeland Security Task Force investigation.
The FBI and Puerto Rico Police Department played key roles in the law enforcement action targeting the organization.
Officials said the gang had been active in and around the western city of Mayagüez for several years. The group is accused of trafficking fentanyl, cocaine and other illegal drugs while allegedly generating millions of dollars in criminal proceeds.
The federal charges represent one of the latest large-scale efforts by U.S. authorities to target violent gangs and drug trafficking networks operating in Puerto Rico.
Gang Accused of Drug Trafficking and Violent Crimes
Prosecutors allege that the organization was responsible for distributing large quantities of fentanyl and fentanyl-laced narcotics, along with other illegal drugs.
Authorities also linked the alleged gang to serious acts of violence, including shootings, killings, kidnappings and assaults.
Federal officials said the investigation uncovered allegations involving at least 340 kilograms of fentanyl or fentanyl-related narcotics. The organization is also accused of generating nearly $50 million through its alleged criminal activities.
Attorney General Todd Blanche said law enforcement agencies were working together to combat criminal cartels, gangs and transnational organizations that contribute to violence and drug trafficking.
Officials Say Crackdown Aims to Improve Community Safety
Acting U.S. Attorney Héctor Ramírez-Carbó said the defendants would face the justice system and stressed the importance of protecting communities affected by gang violence.
Authorities said the operation was intended to weaken the organization’s influence and improve safety for residents in Mayagüez and other communities across Puerto Rico.
The case forms part of a broader federal focus on tackling violent crime, illegal drug trafficking and organized criminal activity through coordinated investigations involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
As the criminal cases move forward, the accused individuals will face federal proceedings connected to the allegations announced by the Justice Department.
