ICE storms cartel-run nightclub, arrests 72 migrants including murder suspect
3 minute readPublished: Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at 8:43 pm
ICE Raids South Carolina Nightclub, Arrests Over 70 in Cartel Bust
Federal agents conducted a major raid on a suspected cartel-operated nightclub in Summerville, South Carolina, early Sunday morning, resulting in over 70 arrests. The operation, dubbed "Operation Last Stand," targeted The Alamo, an underground establishment believed to be a hub for criminal activity.
The raid, involving approximately 200 law enforcement personnel from multiple agencies, uncovered a range of illicit activities. Authorities recovered firearms, large sums of cash, and identified seven potential human trafficking victims. Disturbingly, underage individuals, including teens as young as 13, were found consuming alcohol within the club.
The club's owner, Benjamin Reyna-Flores, is suspected of ties to the Cártel del Noreste (CDN), formerly known as Los Zetas Cartel, a group previously designated as a terrorist organization. He now faces both state and federal charges. Among those arrested was Sergio Joel Galo-Baca, a Honduran fugitive wanted for homicide, highlighting the international scope of the criminal network.
The investigation, which spanned several months, was initiated following noise complaints that led to increased scrutiny of the nightclub. Law enforcement executed 116 arrest warrants, encompassing both criminal and immigration-related charges. The arrests included two "high-level" cartel members, with the potential for more arrests to follow.
Witness accounts described a scene of chaos as agents stormed the building, issuing commands in both English and Spanish. Those arrested face charges ranging from assault on a police officer to possession of controlled substances and firearms.
BNN's Perspective:
This raid underscores the complex challenges posed by transnational criminal organizations. While the operation's success in removing dangerous individuals and disrupting criminal activity is commendable, it also highlights the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of illegal immigration and the vulnerabilities exploited by cartels. Striking a balance between border security, law enforcement, and humanitarian concerns is crucial.
Keywords: ICE raid, South Carolina, nightclub, cartel, arrests, illegal immigration, human trafficking, firearms, narcotics, Cártel del Noreste, Los Zetas, homicide, fugitive, Operation Last Stand, law enforcement, Summerville, Benjamin Reyna-Flores, Sergio Joel Galo-Baca, underage drinking, criminal activity, border security.