Over 100 Undocumented Immigrants And Active-Duty Soldiers Detained In Colorado Springs Nightclub Raid

 

More than 100 individuals suspected of being in the country illegally were detained in Colorado Springs following an overnight raid at what authorities described as an underground nightclub operating out of a strip mall.

Federal officials revealed that over a dozen active-duty military personnel were present at the scene, with some allegedly working at the illicit club.

“What was happening inside was significant drug trafficking, prostitution, crimes of violence,” said Jonathan C. Pullen, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Rocky Mountain Division, during a Sunday morning press conference. “We seized a number of guns. Active-duty service members were running security at the club and were involved in some of these crimes. And in fact, we had over 100 illegal aliens inside as well.”

Authorities reported finding cocaine and "pink cocaine," also known as "tusi," at the scene.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took custody of those believed to be in the U.S. illegally, while the active-duty service members were turned over to the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division for further handling.

Video released by the DEA early Sunday showed federal agents smashing through a large front window as dozens of people fled, only to be apprehended by waiting officers. Many of the individuals were dressed for a nightclub setting.

The raid involved hundreds of agents from over 10 federal agencies. More than 200 people were inside the establishment when authorities stormed the building, Pullen said.

The nightclub had been under investigation for several months. Law enforcement agencies documented ongoing drug trafficking, prostitution, and the presence of members from notorious gangs, including Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua, MS-13, and the Hells Angels.

“I don’t have confirmation yet whether those gang members were present during the raid tonight, but we’re still processing a large number of detainees,” Pullen said.

He added, “Colorado Springs is waking up to a safer city this Sunday morning.”

Stephen Miller, former White House deputy chief of staff under President Donald Trump, commented on the raid Sunday on social media, noting it was a joint operation between the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice, with more details expected to follow.