Massive crystal meth smuggling ring busted

The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics just wrapped up a 10-month methamphetamine investigation.

It resulted in numerous warrants.

OBN Spokesman Mark Woodward says agents and officers from several departments fanned out around 6:00 this morning.

They were armed with 5 Search Warrants and 21 Arrest Warrants for defendants accused of trafficking and distributing large quantities of methamphetamine in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. Woodward says,  “In April, 2012, OBN began investigating a large meth distribution ring in Okmulgee. This group of defendants would import significant quantities of crystal methamphetamine or ‘ICE’ into the Okmulgee area to supply local dealers and users.”

Woodward says this group would routinely import as much as 2 to 5 pounds of crystal meth a month.  Assisting OBN with the investigation included the District 25 Drug Task Force, the Okmulgee Police Department and the Henryetta Police Department.

OBN Director Darrell Weaver says removing these criminal drug elements from communities is a vital role of his state drug agency. Weaver says, "Today, we inflicted a critical blow to the methamphetamine trade in the Okmulgee area with the arrest of these individuals.  This group of outlaws distributed alarming amounts of this highly addictive drug and made enormous profits while peddling their illicit wares. The cooperation between local law enforcement and OBN was superb and I am very pleased. We must continue to be vigilant in our stance against this devilish drug."

The arestees face a variety of charges, including Aggravated Trafficking and Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.

Additional arrests are possible as the investigation continues.