CHICAGO, June 13 (Xinhua) -- U.S. federal and local law enforcement agencies have arrested more than 50 people in Chicago in a coordinated operation to crack down on drug trafficking, authorities announced on Wednesday.
A Mexico-based drug trafficker and a Wisconsin-based courier are among the arrested, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office in Northern District of Illinois.
They face criminal charges as part of a joint investigation into heroin and fentanyl sales in Chicago.
The operation, dubbed "Operation Full Circle," centered on drug sales on the city's West Side, and resulted in the seizure of more than two kilograms of heroin, a kilogram of fentanyl, and 136 kilograms of marijuana.
Authorities also seized 17 illegal firearms, including three rifles, and approximately 8,000 U.S. dollars in narcotics proceeds.
"Last night Chicago Police Department, in partnership with state and federal law enforcement agencies, took more gang members and guns off our streets and sent a clear message that there is zero tolerance for illegal activity or violence," Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel said on Wednesday.
"Our children deserve to grow up free from fear and gang violence, and I commend the brave men and women of Chicago's Police Department for their steadfast commitment to a safer and stronger city for all," the mayor added.
