OHIO — More than 30 people were arrested across Northeast Ohio as part of a large-scale drug investigation known as “Operation Smoke and Mirrors,” authorities said.
According to officials, 33 individuals were taken into custody Thursday by the United States Marshals Service, the Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The arrests were made in multiple cities, including Cleveland, Bedford Heights, Euclid, Maple Heights, and Dayton.
The operation followed a months-long investigation that began in the fall of 2025. Law enforcement agencies involved included the Cartel, Gang, Narcotics, and Laundering Task Force, Cleveland Police’s Second District Vice Unit, and the Ohio High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area initiative.
The investigation focused on the distribution of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine in Cleveland’s Clark-Fulton neighborhood.
Authorities said the operation resulted in the seizure of significant amounts of illegal drugs, including approximately 252 grams of cocaine, 250 grams of fentanyl, 250 grams of methamphetamine, and 50 grams of MDMA. Multiple firearms were also recovered.
As a result of the investigation, the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office secured indictments against 40 individuals.
Officials say the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests are possible.
