Illegal North Carolina Bar Raided, 9 Arrested on Nearly 70 Charges

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North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement agents raided an illegal nightclub called Blue Vibes in Raleigh, leading to the arrest of 9 people on nearly 70 charges. During the raid, authorities seized 5 guns, including a 'Glock switch' that allows a Glock to operate in full auto mode, as well as over 400 bottles of alcohol and $1,263 in cash. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests and charges are expected.

Why it matters

The raid on Blue Vibes highlights the ongoing problem of illegal bars and nightclubs operating in North Carolina, which have been linked to violence and other criminal activity in the past. The seizure of several firearms, including a 'weapon of mass destruction,' also raises concerns about the potential for gun violence at these unlicensed establishments.

The details

According to the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) agency, the raid on Blue Vibes came after a tip about 'illegal activity' at the business. Undercover ALE agents had previously visited the bar and noted several violations, including the sale of alcoholic beverages without permits. When agents arrived to execute the search warrant, the bar's security guards refused to open the door, forcing the agents to break it down. During the raid, authorities seized 2 firearms, 11.5 gallons of liquor, 401 bottles of beer and wine, and $1,263 in cash.

• The raid on Blue Vibes took place on Saturday night.
• In 2020, one of the bar's employees, Jeffery Lynch, was arrested after a deadly shooting at another Raleigh nightclub called StarBar.
• On Tuesday, authorities arrested Elvin David Beltre, who was determined to be an organizer of the illegal Blue Vibes bar, at his home in Knightdale.

What’s next

Authorities said the investigation is ongoing, and more arrests and charges are forthcoming.