http://www.nbc4i.com/crime/10114396/detail.html

$2M In Cocaine Seized In Raids

POSTED: 4:04 pm EDT October 19, 2006
UPDATED: 6:02 pm EDT October 19, 2006

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- More than $2 million worth of cocaine was seized in a drug bust on Thursday.

After an extensive investigation, police said, they were able to make one of the biggest drug busts in Columbus' history, NBC 4's Tacome Newsome reported.

The raids were made at two Columbus homes on Wednesday night.

Officers said they found 84 kilos of cocaine and $89,000 in cash.

Three people were arrested in connection with the drug ring. One of the people arrested is believed to be an illegal resident, police said.

The suspects were identified as 37-year-old Tito Ernesto Fontes, 41-year-old Gonzalo Eduardo Saavedra and 29-year-old Jamil Shaidai Shalash.

Police said that when they started the investigation more than a year ago, they had no idea how much they would find.

Police said their investigation isn't over and that they suspect at least one more person involved is at large.

According to police, the three suspects will likely face federal charges and, if convicted, 10 years to life in prison.

Watch NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com for additional information.
Copyright 2006 by nbc4i.com.