The Drug Enforcement Administration is targeting members of what they say is a street gang that uses extreme measures of violence to rob narcotic suppliers in the Rio Grande Valley.
On Tuesday morning, the DEA, along with local, state and federal counterparts, conducted 11 search warrants and executed six arrest warrants for members of the Vallucos street gang, said Richard Sanchez, DEA assistant special agent in charge in McAllen.
The investigation into the gang, however, was initiated in December 2020.
“Through a multitude of investigative means, in July 2021, the DEA received arrest warrants for 15 members of the street gang, seven of which were already in custody,” Sanchez said.
To date, the investigation has resulted in cumulative seizures of about 136 pounds of cocaine, a little more than 2 pounds of methamphetamine and $2.6 million in assets and currency.
Tuesday’s operation took place in Hidalgo County and all of those arrested will be facing federal charges.
Sanchez said the investigation is ongoing and that the DEA anticipates future arrests.
