On Monday, two high-ranking members of the notorious criminal organization Latin Kings were among 21 suspects apprehended by law enforcement in a drug bust nicknamed "Operation Checkmate." The arrests occurred in Hillsborough County (Florida), and they capped off a three-month-long investigation between the DEA and Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. The narcotics crackdown aimed to combat the distribution of lethal substances and focused on the activity of two Latin Kings, particularly Fidencio Robles (30) and Omar Bravo (32). According to the Sheriff's Office, the latter operated as the top drug supplier in Florida for the Latin Kings. Robles and Bravo primarily functioned out of the Wimuama area, where the Latin Kings used five houses for distribution purposes. Both men are considered "top five" ranking members of their organization. Some of the most crucial aspects of "Operation Checkmate" were the undercover cops used to probe and purchase drugs from the Latin Kings. Ultimately, law enforcement prevailed in a dangerous game of oneupmanship, resulting in the shutdown of an illegal business that reportedly raked in $300K to $500K monthly.
"In a game of chess, checkmate is a term used when the king on a chess board can not escape; it's game over," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "In this operation, 'Checkmate' is fitting, as the Latin Kings and their criminal cohorts did not escape. They are under arrest; it is game over for them."
Upon the massive drug bust, law enforcement recovered $1 million worth of drugs, numerous automobiles, 15 firearms, and nearly 100 roosters believed to have been a part of the gang's cockfighting ring. Robles and Bravo are facing a multitude of charges, including drug trafficking and possession of firearms. Ashley Moody, Florida's Attorney General, will lead the prosecution of this case. Special Agent Mike Ferguson will aid her efforts.
Source: WFLA
