Nearly 55 Arrested in Major Georgia Drug Bust

Sweeping takedown targets drug trafficking ring spanning multiple states

Feb. 4, 2026 at 2:47pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Federal and local law enforcement agencies carried out a large-scale operation across Georgia and several other states, arresting 55 of the 56 people indicted in a major drug trafficking case centered in Glynn County and on St. Simons Island. The suspects are accused of moving large amounts of fentanyl, methamphetamine, MDMA, cocaine, crack cocaine and marijuana throughout coastal Georgia.

Why it matters

This bust represents a significant effort by law enforcement to dismantle a large-scale drug trafficking organization that was operating across state lines and obtaining drugs from suppliers as far away as China. It highlights the importance of cooperation between federal, state and local agencies in tackling complex criminal enterprises that threaten public safety.

The details

The investigation began in 2023 and uncovered an extensive drug network with ties beyond coastal Georgia. Members of the group allegedly traveled to cities including Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta and Jacksonville to obtain drugs, and one suspect communicated with a supplier in China to have drugs shipped directly to Brunswick. Multiple SWAT teams from various agencies were used to make the arrests, which officials described as some of the most dangerous.

  • The investigation began in 2023.
  • The arrests were carried out in early 2026.

The players

Brian Ozden

Assistant special agent in charge of the FBI's Atlanta Division.

Angela Smith

Brunswick Police Chief.

Chris Hosey

Georgia Bureau of Investigation Director.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This morning, FBI Atlanta, along with our federal, state and local partners, made a significant effort to crush violent crime here in the Glynn County community. Our goal is not just to put people in handcuffs for a few days, but to build cases that dismantle criminal enterprises and keep our communities safe for the long term.”

— Brian Ozden, Assistant special agent in charge of the FBI's Atlanta Division (CBS News Atlanta)

“Citizens have asked, 'What are we going to do about crime?' This operation is indicative of the work being done. Residents and visitors deserve to feel safe, and we will continue to dismantle criminal elements in our community.”

— Angela Smith, Brunswick Police Chief (CBS News Atlanta)

“This investigation required time, patience, precision and partnership. It reflects what happens when agencies work together with one mission: protecting the people of Georgia and upholding public safety.”

— Chris Hosey, Georgia Bureau of Investigation Director (CBS News Atlanta)

What’s next

Authorities said one indicted person remains outstanding but is expected to turn herself in in the coming days.

The takeaway

This major drug bust highlights the importance of cooperation between federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in dismantling large-scale criminal enterprises that threaten public safety across multiple jurisdictions. It demonstrates the commitment of authorities to aggressively target drug trafficking networks and keep communities secure.