Federal authorities announced Sunday that more than 100 illegal immigrants were arrested during a massive law enforcement raid on an underground nightclub in Colorado Springs. According to officials, the venue was reportedly frequented by members of violent criminal organizations, including TdA and MS-13.
The operation, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Rocky Mountain Division, unfolded early Sunday morning and involved over 300 law enforcement officers from multiple federal and local agencies, including the FBI, ATF, ICE, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, and the Colorado Springs Police Department.
Authorities said the raid resulted in the detention of 114 illegal immigrants and the discovery of significant quantities of narcotics—including pink cocaine—numerous firearms, and evidence of prostitution activities. Inside the club, more than 200 people were found at the time of the raid.
“@DHSgov has taken more than 100 illegal aliens into custody,” DEA Rocky Mountain posted on X (formerly Twitter), adding, “Drugs and weapons have also been seized at this underground nightclub in Colorado Springs.”
Dramatic footage showed large crowds trying to flee the scene as heavily armed officers moved in to secure the premises.
Political Reactions and Military Involvement
Former President Donald Trump quickly reacted to the operation, praising the raid in a post on Truth Social.
“A big Raid last night on some of the worst people illegally in our Country — Drug Dealers, Murderers, and other Violent Criminals,” Trump wrote. “If we don’t win this battle at the Supreme Court, our Country, as we know it, is FINISHED! MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Attorney General Pamela Bondi also applauded the DEA’s efforts, noting that the operation uncovered significant criminal activity.
“This morning @DEAHQ apprehended over 100 illegal aliens at an underground nightclub frequented by TdA and MS-13 terrorists,” Bondi wrote. “Cocaine, meth, and pink cocaine were seized.”
DEA officials confirmed that among those found inside the nightclub were about a dozen active-duty U.S. military service members. According to Special Agent Jonathan Pullen, they were present either as patrons or as part of the club’s private security team.
“I think everybody who walks into a nightclub at 3 a.m. knows what kind of environment they’re entering,” Pullen said to Denver 7. He added that the active-duty service members were being handled by Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID) but had not been formally arrested at that time.
Why Colorado Is Becoming a Crime Hub
Authorities highlighted that Colorado’s sanctuary policies have contributed to an increase in illegal immigration and criminal activity.
“Colorado has undoubtedly become a hub for illegal immigration due to Denver’s sanctuary city policies combined with radical legislation from the State Capitol,” Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly told The Gazette. “As sheriff, I will do everything possible within Colorado law to support federal partners and ensure community safety.”
DEA Acting Administrator Derek Maltz previously warned that Colorado has become “ground zero” for some of America’s most violent criminal organizations, including Tren de Aragua.
Many of the individuals arrested in Sunday’s raid are expected to face federal immigration charges, while at least two individuals were arrested on outstanding warrants.
DEA Rocky Mountain noted: “#DEA partners and @DHSgov placed patrons (in the U.S. illegally) on buses for processing and likely eventual deportation.”
Colorado Springs Police Clarify Role
Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vasquez emphasized that his department participated strictly to investigate criminal activities, not to enforce immigration laws, in accordance with state law restrictions.
“I want to be clear that it is the responsibility of CSPD to investigate criminal activity and make arrests when appropriate,” Vasquez said. “This operation was the result of a months-long investigation into serious criminal activity in our community. While the investigation continues, further criminal charges are expected.”
Conclusion
Speaking to the media, Special Agent Jonathan Pullen stated, “Colorado Springs woke up today to a safer city.”
As the nation approaches President Trump’s 100th day back in office, supporters like Bondi praised the raid as a tangible result of Trump’s renewed focus on law and order.
“Under @POTUS Trump’s directive to make America safe again, we are seeing real results,” Bondi posted.
The investigation into the nightclub’s activities is ongoing, and officials say additional arrests and charges are likely.