Miami Beach, FL - A coordinated law enforcement sweep over Memorial Day weekend resulted in a series of arrests involving illegal firearms and narcotics in Miami Beach.
The joint effort, conducted between May 23rd and May 25th, was led by the FBI and the Miami Beach Police Department as part of two targeted initiatives named Operation Viper and Operation Starlight.
Authorities reported that these efforts focused on curbing violent crime during one of the busiest weekends of the year.
In total, investigators opened 17 cases involving firearms.
Four suspects were taken into custody in connection with gun-related offenses, while another four were arrested for alleged drug violations.
One stolen vehicle was recovered, and police began an investigation into an armed residential robbery.
Some of these cases may later be prosecuted at the federal level, according to officials familiar with the matter.
Ryan James, Assistant Special Agent in Charge at the FBI’s Miami office, emphasized the importance of these operations in protecting the public.
He noted that individuals involved in shootings, robberies, and drug distribution disrupt local communities and often create unsafe conditions during holiday weekends.
Miami Beach Police Chief Wayne Jones also expressed pride in the outcome, praising the work of the department’s Street Crimes Section.
He credited the success to close cooperation between local detectives and federal agents, which resulted in the seizure of illegal weapons and removal of dangerous substances from city streets.
Investigations remain active as authorities continue to gather information and prepare possible charges. Additional details have not yet been released.