Immigration Agents Conduct Major Raid on Cartel-Operated Nightclubs in South Carolina
Federal immigration agents executed a sweeping raid on nightclubs in South Carolina linked to cartel operations, resulting in the arrests of over 70 undocumented immigrants, including fugitives from Honduras wanted for murder. This operation was confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security.
During the early hours of the morning, around 3 a.m., agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) targeted The Alamo, a basement nightclub in Summerville. Inside, they discovered firearms and rescued seven individuals suspected of being victims of human trafficking, along with a 13-year-old boy who was reportedly drinking at the venue.
The owner of the club, Benjamin Reina Flores, is believed to have ties to the Los Zetas Cartel—now referred to as Cartel del Noreste (CDN)—which was labeled a terrorist organization by the Trump administration in February. He is currently facing multiple charges from both state and federal authorities.
The recent raid was part of an extensive investigation known as “Operation Last Stand,” which lasted several months. Officials described the nightclub as a nexus for drugs, weapons, and human trafficking, enlisting nearly 200 law enforcement personnel from 14 agencies for this operation.
A total of 80 arrests were made, including that of Sergio Joel Garo Baka, a Honduran fugitive with an Interpol red notice for murder. The local HSI office in Charlotte led the operation.
Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Tricia McLaughlin, expressed her support for the operation, commending the efforts of ICE agents in collaboration with local law enforcement to enhance community safety. She mentioned that under the leadership of Trump and Secretary Kristi Noem, criminals have been pursued more aggressively.
Governor Henry McMaster also reflected similar sentiments in his comments, noting the arrest of members from the Tren de Aragua gang and emphasizing the consequences of years of lax border policies. He remarked that recent changes in enforcement strategies are making a difference.
Charleston County Sheriff Carl Richie indicated that law enforcement has been monitoring the nightclub since November, and over 116 arrest warrants were executed during the operation, involving both detectives and immigration-related allegations. While some of those arrested were citizens, others were not.
Among the suspects apprehended, two were identified as high-ranking members of the cartel. Sheriff Richie remarked that the scene resembled a “cartel after party.”
Two witnesses, David Herrera and Destiny Tinoco, shared their experiences of the chaotic scene as agents shouted orders and pointed firearms at attendees. Herrera recalled that, despite the initial festivities, the atmosphere quickly transformed into chaos as agents detained everyone present for about an hour and a half.
As the situation unfolded, it was reported that Richie himself was arrested on various charges, including assault on a police officer and possession of controlled substances and a firearm.
