A four-month coordinated operation across Louisiana has led to 742 arrests, the recovery of 176 firearms, hundreds of pounds of illegal drugs including fentanyl, and more than $250,000 in cash as federal, state, and local agencies targeted violent gangs and drug traffickers.
Officials announced the results on Wednesday, revealing that the crackdown — which kicked off in October — zeroed in on violent street gangs and drug-trafficking rings operating throughout the state. The effort brought together the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Louisiana State Police, and numerous local sheriff’s offices and police departments.
Jonathan Tapp, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s New Orleans Field Office, said the operation relied on focused enforcement in high-crime neighborhoods to take drug dealers, gang members, and violent offenders off the streets. “We are zeroing in on drug cartels and violent gangs no matter where they operate,” Tapp said. “We’re hitting their leadership, their supply chains, their money, and their associates.”
Zachary A. Keller, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana, highlighted the strength of collaboration. “This operation proves what can happen when federal, state, and local agencies unite to dismantle dangerous criminal networks,” Keller said. “The arrests and seizures send a strong message: Louisiana will not stand for cartel-linked drug trafficking and gun violence in our communities.”
"We eat, sleep, and breathe violent crime. Our agents and task force officers are using every bit of their expertise to stop it cold.
— Jonathan Tapp, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge
The statewide effort uncovered substantial amounts of narcotics, including fentanyl — the powerful synthetic opioid driving a large share of overdose deaths nationwide. Authorities emphasized that cutting off the supply of these deadly drugs directly saves lives and undercuts the financial strength of organized crime.
Many of the firearms recovered were tied to shootings, robberies, and gang violence. Officials said removing illegal guns from communities is a key part of bringing down homicide and gun-injury rates across Louisiana.
Investigators also confiscated more than $250,000 in cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales and related criminal activity.
Major Results from the Multi-Agency Sweep
The four-month push delivered clear outcomes: 742 arrests statewide, 176 firearms recovered, nearly 300 pounds of illegal narcotics seized, and over $250,000 in cash taken out of criminal hands.
FBI officials said the arrests focused on gang leadership, mid-level drug distributors, and violent offenders. Many of those taken into custody now face federal charges including drug trafficking, illegal firearm possession, and conspiracy.
Heavy Focus on Fentanyl and Cartel Networks
Law enforcement has long warned that Mexican drug cartels are the main source of fentanyl and other dangerous narcotics flooding U.S. communities. Louisiana’s location near Gulf Coast smuggling corridors makes it a critical pathway for drugs moving north from the border.
The significant fentanyl seizures were described as a serious setback for trafficking organizations. Fentanyl remains the leading driver of overdose deaths across the country, and officials said every pound removed from the streets can prevent numerous tragedies.
Operation NOLA Safe Targets New Orleans Before Mardi Gras
In the New Orleans area, a parallel effort called Operation NOLA Safe focused on reducing violent crime ahead of the busy Mardi Gras season. Officials said proactive policing helped prevent potential gang violence and shootings during the high-traffic tourist period.
✓ 175 arrests to date
✓ 114 firearms recovered
✓ More than 20 kg of cocaine
✓ Over 1 kg of fentanyl
✓ 102 kg of marijuana
✓ Tens of thousands of illicit prescription pills
Authorities expect more arrests and charges as follow-up investigations continue in the weeks ahead.
Long-Term Commitment to Safer Communities
Both the statewide operation and Operation NOLA Safe reflect a strong emphasis on cooperation between federal, state, and local agencies to combat violent crime and drug trafficking throughout Louisiana.
Law enforcement leaders say the results prove what’s possible when agencies pool intelligence, align resources, and zero in on high-risk areas. Officials vowed to keep the pressure on gangs and traffickers moving forward.
We’re all in on this. Our agents and task force officers are fully committed to stopping violent crime in its tracks.— Jonathan Tapp, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge
As violent crime and the opioid epidemic continue to challenge communities across Louisiana and the nation, authorities say operations like these will remain a top priority to disrupt criminal organizations and protect public safety.
The public is urged to report suspicious activity or provide anonymous tips through local Crime Stoppers programs or directly to the FBI.
