OMAHA, Neb. --
Authorities said more than 100 law enforcement officers executed 55 arrest warrants Tuesday morning in an operation seven months in the making.
The United States' Attorney's Office said the undercover investigation targeted violent crime throughout the city, focusing on convicted felons and other criminals who traffic guns and drugs in Omaha.
The raids were the result of a seven-month long joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Omaha Police Department.
“Today marks a significant step in ridding our community of felons, firearms and drugs, but there is still much work to do," U.S. Attorney Deborah R. Gilg said.
The defendants face federal and state charges, including illegal firearm possession and drug trafficking, according to a news release.
The raids resulted in the seizure of more than 70 firearms and illegal drugs with a street value of more than $50,000, authorities said.
Most of the federal defendants arrested will make initial appearances in U.S. District Court in Omaha throughout the week. The defendants indicted in Douglas County will make appearances in state court later this week.
The federal defendants will be prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office. The Douglas County attorney will prosecute defendants charged by the state.
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