Feds: 80 arrested in sweep targeting gang activity

YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) — Federal prosecutors say more than 80 people have been arrested in a sweep targeting gangs in central Washington.

The Yakima Herald-Republic reports 21 were arrested in Yakima, while more than 60 were taken into custody in the Tri-Cities area.

Authorities seized drugs, firearms and cash. The eight-week operation focused on street and midlevel drug traffickers, illegal immigrants and fugitives who are suspected of being members or had affiliations with street gangs in the two areas.

The U.S. Attorney's office in Spokane says eight firearms, including two assault rifles; small amounts of marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine; three stolen vehicles and more than $14,000 in cash were seized.

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Information from: Yakima Herald-Republic, http://www.yakima-herald.com