Fulton County, GA – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has announced the arrest of three men connected to the Cartel Jalisco New Generation (CJNG), a major drug trafficking organization based in central Mexico. The suspects are accused of operating a large-scale narcotics and firearms trafficking network across Metro Atlanta, according to officials.
The Incident: Large Drug and Firearms Bust in Metro Atlanta
Authorities said the arrests took place on October 31, following a lengthy multi-agency investigation into the cartel’s alleged operations in Georgia.
According to the GBI, the suspects — Jubenal Farfan Arellano, 52, of Mexico; Omar Flores Mena, 33, of Mexico; and Jose Radilla Maldonado, 29, of Sandy Springs — were trafficking firearms and narcotics throughout the region.
The three men have been charged with racketeering and attempt or conspiracy to violate the Georgia Controlled Substances Act, while Flores Mena faces additional charges for possession of cocaine and methamphetamine.
“The arrests are the result of an extensive, coordinated investigation into an international criminal organization operating in Georgia,” said GBI officials.
Investigation and Evidence Seized
Between October 29 and 30, agents and officers executed five search warrants across Woodstock, Sandy Springs, and Atlanta. During these operations, law enforcement seized more than 500 pounds of marijuana packaged for distribution and nine firearms, including several high-powered rifles.
The GBI Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Multi-Agency Narcotics Squad, the Atlanta Police Department Narcotics Unit, the Sandy Springs Police Department, and the Homeland Security Investigations Violent Gang Task Force all played major roles in the takedown.
Investigators say the group was part of a CJNG network working with Metro Atlanta associates to distribute marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine, and to traffic firearms across state lines.
“Associates of Cartel Jalisco New Generation were working with local contacts to traffic firearms and large quantities of narcotics,” GBI said in a statement.
Court Proceedings and Charges Filed
All three suspects were booked into the Cherokee County Jail, where they are being held pending further charges. Prosecutors confirmed that additional warrants are being prepared for other individuals believed to be part of the same network.
The defendants face serious felony charges that could result in decades-long prison sentences if convicted, given the scope of the alleged trafficking operation and their suspected connection to an international cartel.
The case will be handled jointly by state and federal agencies, as authorities continue to investigate the CJNG’s regional footprint.
Law Enforcement Statements
Sandy Springs Police Sgt. Leon Millholland confirmed his department’s cooperation in the multi-agency effort.
“The agencies executing the search warrants were allowed to conduct their briefing the morning of the operation at our headquarters,” Millholland said. “During the execution of the search warrants within Sandy Springs, our officers were present to support the executing agencies if needed.”
Officials have praised the collaboration between local and federal authorities, calling the arrests a major step in disrupting cartel-linked drug pipelines in Georgia.
Background Context: Cartel Operations Expanding in the U.S.
The Cartel Jalisco New Generation (CJNG) is considered one of Mexico’s most violent and powerful criminal organizations. It has expanded its reach into major U.S. cities, using local distributors to move large quantities of narcotics.
According to federal law enforcement agencies, CJNG has been linked to multi-ton drug shipments, firearms smuggling, and money laundering networks operating in several southern states, including Georgia, Texas, and Florida.
Experts say that Metro Atlanta has become an important logistics hub for transnational drug trafficking due to its interstate connections and distribution networks.
Ongoing Developments and Public Assistance
The GBI stated that more arrests and charges are expected as investigators continue tracking individuals connected to the criminal organization. Law enforcement officials are urging residents to come forward with any information related to drug trafficking or cartel activity in the region.
Anyone with information can contact the GBI’s Appalachian Regional Drug Enforcement Office at (706) 348-7410, or submit anonymous tips through:
- 1-800-597-TIPS (8477)
- gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online
- See Something, Send Something mobile app
“Community cooperation is critical to keeping dangerous narcotics and weapons off our streets,” GBI officials emphasized.
Conclusion
The GBI’s multi-agency operation has dismantled a major distribution cell linked to one of Mexico’s most notorious cartels. With three suspects in custody and over 500 pounds of marijuana seized, authorities say the arrests mark a significant blow to cartel-driven drug and weapons trafficking in Georgia.
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