

Massive Raid Shuts Down Illegal Nightclub
Early on April 27, a multi-agency operation led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) raided an underground nightclub in Colorado Springs, detaining over 200 people. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that 114 of those detained were illegal immigrants, now facing likely deportation. The operation, involving over 300 law enforcement officers from agencies like the FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, targeted a venue linked to serious criminal activity.
Jonathan Pullen, DEA Rocky Mountain Division Special Agent in Charge, described the nightclub as a hub for drug trafficking, prostitution, and violent crimes. 'What was happening inside was significant drug trafficking, prostitution, crimes of violence,' Pullen said at a press conference. Authorities seized cocaine, methamphetamine, pink cocaine (known as tusi), and multiple firearms during the raid.
Trump Administration's Focus on Safety
Bondi emphasized the operation's success as part of President Trump's directive to enhance public safety. 'As we approach his 100 days in office, Trump's directive to make America safe again is achieving results!' she stated. The raid followed months of surveillance, with the DEA documenting the presence of dangerous groups, including alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, MS-13, and the Hells Angels.
President Trump praised the effort, posting on Truth Social: 'A big Raid last night on some of the worst people illegally in our Country β Drug Dealers, Murderers, and other Violent Criminals, of all shapes and sizes.' He highlighted the need for judicial support to ensure deportation, warning that failure to act could lead to a 'Crime ridden MESS.' The operation also uncovered a member of the Sinaloa Cartel among those present, underscoring the severity of the criminal activity.
Active-Duty Military Involvement Raises Concerns
Shockingly, over a dozen active-duty service members from Fort Carson were at the nightclub, some working as armed security and allegedly involved in the crimes. Pullen noted, 'We had active-duty service members who were running security at the club and involved in some of these crimes.' The Army confirmed their presence and is conducting a joint investigation with the DEA, emphasizing that illegal activities do not reflect military values.
A Fort Carson spokesperson stated, 'We acknowledge that there were some Fort Carson service members present at the location during the operation.' Each case will be reviewed individually, with the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. The involvement of military personnel has prompted serious questions about oversight and accountability within the ranks.
Local Leaders Back the Crackdown
Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade supported the raid, declaring, 'Criminal activity of any kind, from anyone, will not be tolerated in Colorado Springs.' The operation stemmed from clear evidence of serious criminal conduct, and local law enforcement, including 40 Colorado Springs Police Department officers, played a key role. Governor Jared Polis, while awaiting further details, expressed support for cracking down on illegal drugs and firearms.
Michael J. Allen, the local district attorney, praised the federal effort but criticized Colorado's sanctuary state policies. 'Over the past several years, the Colorado Legislature has forced upon all Coloradans sanctuary status for illegal immigrants,' he said, arguing that such laws hinder cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Allen urged legislative changes to prioritize public safety.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The raid revealed the nightclub's long-standing reputation, with Bondi noting 170 calls to 911 during the Biden administration, yet no action was taken. 'Wouldn't you think that would've been a red flag? Nothing happened,' she said on Fox & Friends. The property owner, Mike Moon, was unaware of the illegal activities, stating, 'I've never even seen a lot of trash in the parking lot to even suspect that anything like an after-hours nightclub is going on.'
The investigation continues, with Pullen describing it as 'the beginning, not the end.' While many detainees face immigration proceedings, proving drug possession for federal charges may be challenging. The operation sends a clear message: illegal activity will face firm action under the Trump administration's leadership.
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