ILLINOIS — Nearly 30 people were arrested during a recent FBI-led operation targeting violent crime across Central Illinois, according to federal authorities.
The operation, known as “Operation Viper,” was a five-day law enforcement initiative focused on locating and arresting violent offenders with active warrants in East-Central Illinois.
The FBI Springfield Field Office worked alongside several local and federal agencies, including the Decatur Police Department, United States Marshals Service and Kankakee County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said 29 people were arrested during the operation.
Investigators also seized multiple drugs and firearms during the initiative, including more than nine pounds of marijuana, nearly two pounds of unidentified pills, eight ounces of methamphetamine and nearly two ounces of cocaine.
Law enforcement officials said officers also recovered five handguns and two assault rifles.
FBI Springfield Field Office Special Agent in Charge Ryan Presley said the operation demonstrated the importance of cooperation among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies in combating violent crime.
Decatur Police Chief Brad Allen said the operation removed offenders, narcotics and weapons from the streets and emphasized that authorities remain committed to improving public safety in the region.
