Sheriff: 282 arrested in sweep targeting drug and human smuggling in San Diego Co.

Sheriff: 282 arrested in San Diego County sweep

SAN DIEGO — San Diego County sheriff’s officials say more than 280 people have been arrested in a crackdown on gangs and drug and human smuggling at the U.S.-Mexican border.

Sheriff Bill Gore said Monday that 24 documented gang members and eight gang associates have been booked on suspicion of various offenses following the two-day multi-agency operation called “Allied Shield.”

Gore says the operation focused on San Diego gangs allegedly involved in cross-border crime.

Officials say some of the arrests were for smuggling activities that were not gang-related and others were for outstanding warrants, parole violations, probation violations, suspected drunken driving and other offenses.

About 165 pounds of marijuana, 21 pounds of methamphetamine, six pounds of cocaine, heroin and weapons were also seized.