Smithfield Police announced Thursday the culmination of an undercover drug investigation dubbed Operation Lone Ranger. The operation targeted street level drug sales of cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamines and opiate-based pain pills.
During the six month investigation, 16 suspects were identified and more than 90 warrants were obtained against the alleged drug dealers.
On Wednesday, the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, Four Oaks Police Department, Selma Police Department, and NC Alcohol Law Enforcement assisted Smithfield Police with the roundup of the suspects.
“The Smithfield Police Department continues to take an aggressive approach to combat the sale of narcotics in an attempt to reduce illegal narcotic activity within the Smithfield city limits,” Police Captain R. Sheppard said.
“We appreciate the hard work and cooperative between local law enforcement agencies,” Police Chief Keith Powell added.
As of Thursday morning, 9 of the 16 suspects had been located and arrested. Officers are actively looking for the remaining individuals.
