Colorado Springs Nightclub Raid: Over 200 Detained in Major DEA Operation

In a massive early morning operation on Sunday, more than 200 people — including active-duty military members, alleged gang affiliates, and undocumented migrants — were detained at an unlicensed nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Rocky Mountain Division led the "multi-agency enforcement operation" around 3:45 a.m., with the assistance of about 10 federal agencies, local sheriff's deputies, and specialized tactical units. The investigation had been underway for several months and involved undercover operations, surveillance, and the use of drones, a helicopter, and an armored vehicle.

What Authorities Found

Inside the illegal nightclub — set up in an event space at a strip mall — authorities discovered:

• Close to 300 patrons, including over 114 individuals reportedly in the U.S. illegally, primarily from Central and South America.

• Active-duty military personnel, some of whom were allegedly working security or involved in other criminal activities at the club.

• Drugs including cocaine, methamphetamine, and "pink cocaine" (a synthetic drug known as “tusi”).

• Weapons and substantial evidence of drug trafficking, prostitution, and suspected human trafficking.

• Alleged presence of violent gang members from groups such as Tren de Aragua, MS-13, and the Hells Angels.

DEA Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Pullen said the operation was critical in disrupting major criminal activity in the region. "Colorado Springs is waking up to a safer city this Sunday morning," Pullen noted during a press conference.

Military Involvement and Further Investigations

The Army confirmed that active-duty service members from Fort Carson were at the nightclub. Some were allegedly providing security and participating in criminal acts. These individuals are now under investigation by the Army Criminal Investigation Division in coordination with the DEA. Details regarding arrests or disciplinary actions against the soldiers have not been released yet.

Community Reactions

Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade praised the operation, stating, "Criminal activity of any kind, from anyone, will not be tolerated in Colorado Springs." Governor Jared Polis’s office echoed support, emphasizing a commitment to "making Colorado safer by cracking down on illegal drugs and firearms."

Meanwhile, Attorney General Pam Bondi and President Donald Trump highlighted the bust as part of broader efforts to strengthen public safety. Bondi praised the seizure of narcotics and weapons, while Trump, in a post on TruthSocial, described the raid as targeting "some of the worst people illegally in our Country."

Property Owner Response

Mike Moon, owner of the event center where the nightclub operated, expressed shock. He stated he had no knowledge of the illegal activities taking place and that the tenants' lease was set to expire at the end of April. "It's shocking to me that in this political climate that something like this was even happening," Moon said.

No Law Enforcement Injuries Reported

Thankfully, no officers were injured during the operation. However, one man attempting to escape by jumping out a window suffered life-threatening injuries and required medical attention.

Summay:The Colorado Springs nightclub raid has exposed a concerning nexus of criminal activity involving gangs, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and the involvement of military personnel. As investigations continue, the event underscores the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in tackling organized crime networks operating in the shadows.