SOUTH CAROLINA — Forty-one people have been arrested following a two-week drug investigation in Columbia, according to police.
The Columbia Police Department said the operation targeted drug distribution networks across the city and involved local, state and federal partners. Authorities said eight of those arrested are facing charges related to selling or possessing drugs near schools.
Investigators say officers seized multiple types of narcotics during the operation, including crack cocaine, powder cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana and hash oil.
Police also recovered six firearms, including one fully automatic weapon and another that had been reported stolen. Authorities said at least one person charged in the case is a convicted felon accused of illegally possessing a firearm.
In addition to drugs and weapons, officers seized more than $2,300 in cash, with additional money still being counted. Investigators also took several pieces of jewelry they believe are connected to criminal activity.
Officials said nine of the arrests were made during the operation itself, while the remaining 32 were served with warrants tied to the investigation. Those taken into custody were booked into the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing.
