Two Arrested on Human Trafficking and Drug Charges in Columbus

Suspects linked to Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación in multi-agency investigation

Jan. 27, 2026 at 9:07pm

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Two men, Raul Reyes-Nepomuceno and Brandon Reyes-Escano, were arrested in Columbus, Georgia on charges related to human trafficking and drug trafficking following a multi-month investigation conducted in coordination with federal law enforcement partners. Evidence recovered from two residences linked the locations to human trafficking and drug trafficking activity.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat the serious issues of human trafficking and drug trafficking in the region. The involvement of a Mexican drug cartel also raises concerns about the reach and influence of transnational criminal organizations.

The details

On January 22, members of the Columbus Police Department's Special Operations Unit assisted the Drug Enforcement Administration by conducting a traffic stop on Victory Drive near 10th Avenue as part of an ongoing federal investigation into human trafficking involving sexual servitude. The vehicle was being driven by Raul Reyes-Nepomuceno. Search warrants were then executed at two residences connected to the case, one on Lacey Oak Court and the other on Clay Drive. Evidence recovered from the residences included methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, firearms, condoms, lubricant, and other items linked to human trafficking and drug trafficking activity.

  • On January 22, 2026 at approximately 7:41 p.m., the traffic stop was conducted.
  • On January 22, 2026, search warrants were executed at the two residences.

The players

Raul Reyes-Nepomuceno

A 53-year-old man charged with trafficking of persons for labor or sexual servitude, trafficking methamphetamine, pimping, and keeping a place of prostitution. He was found to be unlawfully present in the United States.

Brandon Reyes-Escano

A 23-year-old man charged with trafficking of persons for labor or sexual servitude, trafficking methamphetamine, pimping, and keeping a place of prostitution.

Drug Enforcement Administration

The federal law enforcement agency that led the investigation, with assistance from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Columbus Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that assisted with the investigation, including the Special Operations Unit and Special Victims Unit.

Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación

The Mexican drug cartel that the arrested individuals were found to have affiliations with.

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What’s next

The investigation remains ongoing. The two suspects are scheduled to appear in Recorder's Court on Thursday at 1:30 p.m.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by local and federal law enforcement to combat the serious issues of human trafficking and drug trafficking, which often involve transnational criminal organizations. The recovery of evidence linked to these illicit activities at the two residences underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies to disrupt these criminal networks.