BREAKING: Boston Police have seized over two kilograms of fentanyl and arrested five suspects in a major drug operation linked to rising local drug activity. The operation, carried out in the Southwest Corridor area, follows community complaints that intensified after the dismantling of the Mass and Cass tent-city, which had been a hotspot for open-air drug dealing.
In a coordinated crackdown, officers executed multiple search warrants at various locations, including 176 Stratton St. in Dorchester, 127 Hazelton St. in Mattapan, and 1059 Tremont St. in Roxbury. During the operation, authorities also confiscated 32 rounds of ammunition, digital scales, drug packaging materials, and more than $3,000 in cash.
The Boston Police Department stated, “As a result of the coordinated operation, officers seized more than two kilograms of fentanyl.” This seizure comes amidst ongoing concerns about the opioid crisis in Boston, particularly around the Mass and Cass area, known for its challenges with drug and human trafficking.
The suspects arrested include:
– Ricky Wilson Soto-Arias, 36, of Dorchester
– Doris Baez, 37, of Mattapan
– Bryan Mejia, 31, of Mattapan
– Jeil Hernandez, 44, of Boston
– Stephen Smith, 37, of Boston
All suspects, except for Smith, face charges of trafficking Class A drugs. Soto-Arias and Baez are additionally charged with unlawful possession of ammunition. Smith was arrested based on warrants from Roxbury municipal court for breaking and entering in the nighttime and larceny over $250.
This urgent intervention highlights the ongoing struggle against drug trafficking in the city. Community members have expressed heightened frustration and concern as they witness the ramifications of the opioid epidemic in their neighborhoods.
The Boston Police Department worked in partnership with several agencies, including the Massachusetts State Police, MBTA Police, and the Boston Housing Authority Police, to execute this operation aimed at curbing drug-related activities in the area.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as they address the growing concerns of drug violence and trafficking. More updates are expected as the investigation unfolds.
Stay tuned for further developments as Boston fights back against the opioid crisis.
