Arrests Made in Motorcycle Gang Operation

Law enforcement officials arrested multiple members of a violent motorcycle gang on Wednesday during what was dubbed the “Mongolian Beef Operation.” This followed a shootout involving a rival gang.

The FBI’s Jacksonville Division, along with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office and the 7th Judicial Circuit Attorney’s Office, worked together to detain 28 members of the Mongolian motorcycle club. This operation initiated in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, stemmed from reports of a shooting that occurred on March 8 between the Mongols and the Warlocks, a rival gang.

Authorities executed 14 search warrants targeting the Mongols’ clubhouse in Edgewater, several residences across Florida, and a home in Chesterfield County, Virginia.

Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood addressed the incident, noting, “Bullets were flying… there were innocent people there—kids, a very busy day.” He mentioned that three individuals tied to the New Smyrna Beach shooting were also linked to another shooting in Titusville, Florida, earlier this year.

The 7th Judicial Circuit’s Office shared an updated list of those arrested in the Mongolian Beef Operation on their social media platforms, echoing details from the FBI.

The charges against the suspects include multiple counts of participation in an aggravated riot. If found guilty, these gang members could face up to 15 years in prison.

Further charges may arise as the investigation continues, with authorities still searching for three significant individuals involved.

Jason Carly, a special agent from the FBI’s Jacksonville division, emphasized the operation’s effectiveness: “The Mongolian Beef Operation is a prime example of how the FBI can leverage its investigative resources to aid law enforcement and enhance community safety. No doubt, Florida’s streets are safer with these violent offenders off them,” he stated.