Dozens Arrested in Motorcycle Gang Operation

On Wednesday, law enforcement officials arrested multiple members of a violent motorcycle gang following a shootout with a rival group. This operation, dubbed “Mongolian Beef,” was a collaborative effort involving the FBI’s Jacksonville Division, the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, and the 7th Judicial Circuit Lawyer’s Office, resulting in the arrest of 28 individuals linked to the Mongols motorcycle gang.

The operation was initiated after reported shootings between the Mongols and other gangs on March 8. Search warrants were executed at various locations, including the Mongols’ clubhouse in Edgewater, Florida, several residences across Florida, and a property in Chesterfield County, Virginia.

VCSO Sheriff Mike Chitwood addressed the shootout during a press briefing, stating, “Bullets were flying… there were innocent people there, kids, busy, busy, busy, busy day.” He also mentioned that three men linked to a shooting in New Smyrna Beach were associated with an earlier incident in Titusville, Florida.

The 7th Judicial Circuit Office of Florida shared a list of the suspects arrested in connection to this operation on social media, echoing details provided by the FBI.

Authorities have charged the suspects with multiple counts of felony rioting related to an aggravated riot. If convicted, these gang members could face up to 15 years in prison, and additional charges may arise as the investigation continues. Law enforcement is actively searching for three key individuals involved in the incidents.

Special agent Jason Carly from the FBI Jacksonville remarked that the “Mongolian Beef Operation” exemplifies how the FBI supports law enforcement efforts. “There is no doubt that the entire state of Florida is safer on the streets with these violent offenders apprehended,” he noted.