Six Arrested in Springfield Drug and Gun Trafficking Busts

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

State police in Massachusetts have arrested six individuals as part of a crackdown on drug and gun trafficking rings in Springfield. The operations, carried out by the Massachusetts State Police Commonwealth Interstate Narcotics Reduction Enforcement Team, resulted in the seizure of a large cache of firearms, as well as significant quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and cash.

Why it matters

The arrests and seizures highlight the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs and firearms in communities like Springfield, which have been impacted by the opioid crisis and gun violence. The coordinated operations demonstrate the collaboration between state and federal agencies to target sophisticated trafficking networks.

The details

The first operation followed a four-month investigation into a 'sophisticated' drug trafficking ring spanning Massachusetts and Puerto Rico, resulting in six simultaneous search warrants executed in Springfield. The second operation focused on a mid-level fentanyl trafficker in the greater Springfield area. In total, authorities seized 15 handguns, six rifles, 11 large capacity magazines, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, approximately 8.5 kilograms of cocaine, 30,000 bags of fentanyl, and $63,000 in cash.

• The operations were carried out on Tuesday and Wednesday this week.