According to the Port of Los Angeles, officers assisted federal, state and local agencies in multiple investigations targeting narcotics trafficking, illegal drug production, precursor chemical imports and organized cargo theft.
One of the largest operations took place on July 28, when authorities executed a search warrant at a suspected methamphetamine manufacturing site in a remote desert area of Los Angeles County. Investigators recovered large quantities of crystal methamphetamine and highly concentrated liquid methamphetamine, along with approximately $80,000 in cash.
Three Mexican nationals suspected of operating the clandestine laboratory were taken into custody during the operation.
The investigation began in January through a joint effort between the DEA New York Field Division and the DEA Los Angeles High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Group 48, which were investigating a drug trafficking organization linked to the Sinaloa Cartel operating in the Los Angeles region.
Over six months, investigators seized approximately 20,000 fentanyl pills and 20 pounds of methamphetamine before identifying the suspected production site through ground surveillance, electronic monitoring and aerial reconnaissance.
The July 28 operation involved multiple agencies, including the DEA Special Response Team, the DEA Clandestine Laboratory Unit, the Los Angeles Port Police, the Hawthorne Police Department and the El Segundo Police Department.
In a separate narcotics investigation in Riverside County, Port Police officers assisted in the seizure of 119 kilograms of cocaine and two firearms. Authorities identified three suspects, although additional details regarding the investigation or potential charges were not disclosed.
Port Police also announced significant progress in a separate commercial crime investigation led by its Cargo Theft Task Force.
The investigation dismantled an organized theft ring accused of stealing more than $2 million in Nike merchandise. The case resulted in felony indictments against 12 individuals, although officials did not release the suspects’ identities or provide details regarding the specific charges.
Los Angeles Port Police Captain Daniel Cobos said the operations demonstrate the value of collaboration between law enforcement agencies in protecting both public safety and commercial supply chains. He noted that the work of the agency’s task force officers contributes to disrupting drug trafficking networks while also safeguarding freight moving through the region.
The Los Angeles Port Police operates around the clock and is responsible for protecting the Port of Los Angeles across land, sea, air and cyber domains. The department employs more than 300 sworn officers and civilian personnel, with jurisdiction covering approximately 7,500 acres and 43 miles of waterfront.
Although the investigations extended beyond port property, officials emphasized that cargo theft and organized criminal activity affecting freight transportation remain a major focus for the agency and its law enforcement partners.
