Executive Summary
- A multi-agency investigation dismantled a drug trafficking ring in western Washington with alleged links to the Sinaloa Cartel.
- Authorities arrested two suspects and seized large quantities of fentanyl powder, methamphetamine, and cocaine from a Kirkland apartment.
- The investigation, named “Operation Eastbound and Down,” highlights a shift in regional drug trends toward more fentanyl powder and meth.
- The network allegedly distributed over 100 pounds of narcotics every few weeks throughout the Puget Sound region from a supplier in Bridgeport, WA.
A months-long undercover investigation in Washington state culminated in a significant drug seizure at a Kirkland apartment, leading to the arrest of two men and the dismantling of a narcotics distribution network allegedly linked to Mexico’s Sinaloa Cartel. The raid, part of an initiative dubbed “Operation Eastbound and Down,” uncovered large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl powder, and cocaine.
In October, detectives from the King County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at a sparsely furnished apartment unit. According to court documents, investigators discovered vacuum-sealed bricks containing the narcotics. The operation was led by the sheriff’s office’s Precinct Four Special Emphasis Team, a specialized narcotics unit.
Authorities have identified the two men arrested as Anibal Fernando Galarza-Gutama and Ronald Marcelo Galarza-Galarza. Both are currently held in the Snohomish County Jail facing felony drug-trafficking charges. Charging documents state that one of the suspects admitted to sourcing the drugs from Mexico.
An undercover detective involved in the case, whose identity was withheld for security reasons, stated the organization was responsible for moving substantial quantities of drugs throughout King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties. “If you’re bringing drugs and poison into King County, we will come after you,” the detective said.
The investigation also revealed evolving trends in the regional drug trade. Law enforcement has observed a decrease in fentanyl pill seizures but a marked increase in fentanyl powder and methamphetamine. This network is described as a “middle-of-the-road” operation, receiving over 100 pounds of narcotics every few weeks from a supplier in Bridgeport, Washington, for redistribution in the Puget Sound area.
Investigators utilized a K-9 unit and a handheld laser analyzer to locate and identify the substances during the raid. The case remains ongoing as authorities work with federal partners to trace the supply chain. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.