Authorities have reported that all suspects are facing charges related to “various forms of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.”
GLYNN COUNTY, Ga. — In a major crackdown on drug trafficking, officials from the US Attorney’s Office of South Georgia and the FBI’s Atlanta division announced at a Wednesday press briefing that more than 50 individuals have been apprehended in Glynn County.
The FBI Atlanta and the Brunswick Resident Agency conducted an initial investigation revealing that a network of 56 individuals traveled between cities like Atlanta and Jacksonville to obtain drugs, which they planned to distribute from Glynn County.
One of the accused is suspected of coordinating with a supplier in China, allegedly arranging for several kilos of drugs to be shipped directly to Brunswick.
Residents of The Cove at Fountain Lake Apartments in Brunswick reported waking up to an intense scene resembling a movie set, complete with loud crashes, smoke, and tactical teams clad in full SWAT gear.
Authorities confirmed that a suspect was apprehended at the apartment complex on Wednesday morning, alongside 47 others in Brunswick, as part of an operation known as ‘Powder Island.’
“Military-style trucks were out here. It was smoke and gas like in the air. It was shocking. And it’s like, what is going on?” said Natasha Stevens, a resident at the apartments.
Another resident, Luke Sarazine, who moved into the complex just over a month ago, recalled being jolted awake around 6 a.m. by loud crashes and bangs.
“I come outside, and I can hear people saying, ‘Get on the ground! Don’t move!’ They had maybe eight, nine, ten guys with ARs in full tactical gear. It was crazy. You never know what’s right down the street from you.”
With the help of more than 150 personnel from various agencies, 55 of the 56 people indicted in the case have been “captured,” FBI Atlanta said. The final indicted person is expected to turn themselves in within the coming days.
The agency said that all suspects are charged with “variations of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance,” with some facing firearms charges.
Agencies involved in the operation are said to include the DEA, GBI, Glynn County Police Department, Glynn County Sheriff’s Office and the Brunswick Police Department.
