Arizona operation nets 2,900 arrests and 127 guns in first year

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 28 Oct, 20:44 · Archive

Operation Desert Guardian led to more than 2,900 arrests and 127 firearms confiscated in its first year.

Operation Desert Guardian, Arizona's first statewide unified command targeting drug, human and weapons trafficking, has led to more than 2,900 arrests, nearly 10,000 pounds of illegal drugs seized and 127 firearms confiscated in its first year, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

The operation was established by Governor Katie Hobbs in March 2025 to unite tribal, local, state and federal agencies to dismantle criminal networks operating in Arizona. DPS says those organisations are responsible for smuggling fentanyl and other illicit drugs, human trafficking and exploitation, weapons smuggling and coordinating violent criminal activity.

DPS Director Jeffrey Glover said in a statement: 'Operation Desert Guardian demonstrates what is possible when agencies work together with a shared mission and commitment to public safety.' The effort brings together 15 state and local law enforcement agencies. Officials stress the operation does not replace local law enforcement, but connects them.

Arizona operation nets 2,900 arrests and 127 guns in first year — Image: Azfamily

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Operation Desert Guardian nets 2,900+ arrests, hundreds of guns in first year, DPS saysArizona DPS released a new video highlighting Operation Desert Guardian's first-year results, including 2,900+ arrests, nearly 10,000 pounds of drugs seized and 127 firearms confiscated.Azfamily · 28 Oct, 20:01
Operation Desert Guardian nets 2,900+ arrests, hundreds of guns in first year, DPS saysArizona DPS released a new video highlighting Operation Desert Guardian's first-year results, including 2,900+ arrests, nearly 10,000 pounds of drugs seized and 127 firearms confiscated.KOLD · 28 Oct, 20:01

In this story: Arizona Department of Public Safety · Katie Hobbs · Arizona · Jeffrey Glover

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