27 arrests in raids on LA's 18th Street gang

The Associated Press
12:03 p.m. June 25, 2009

LOS ANGELES — Law enforcement officials say they have arrested 27 members and associates of Los Angeles' long-established 18th Street gang.

Raids were conducted early Thursday at 21 locations around Southern California. Authorities say they turned up firearms, narcotics and other contraband. Three children were taken into protective custody.

The arrests come a week after a federal grand jury indicted nine gang members and associates on firearms, drug and immigration charges.
Robert Schoch of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency calls the operation a severe blow to a highly organized street gang.

The investigation also involves the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Los Angeles police and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

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