New York City Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly and David N. Kelley, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, today announced a narcotics takedown in the Bronx involving seven arrests

New York City Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly and David N. Kelley, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, today announced the arrest of seven individuals as part of the takedown of a narcotics gang on East 228th Street in the north Bronx. The arrests by the Bronx Gang Squad were made in conjunction with Special Agents from Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. Those arrested have been charged with weapons possession and narcotics conspiracy.

Detectives executed nine of thirteen arrest warrants and recovered a .25 caliber handgun and 50 bags of crack and 29 grams of crack cocaine. Those arrested are all members of a street gang known as "Killer Bronx Committee" or "KBC." KBC operated and controlled the narcotics trade in the area around East 228th Street and White Plains Road within the confines of the 47 Precinct. Two subjects of the warrants were already in custody. Four other members are currently being sought.

Police Commissioner Kelly said: "These individuals sold crack cocaine and marijuana every day and night for years, virtually taking over the streets where they operated. As so often is the case, their dealings in the narcotics trade went hand-in-hand with a high level of violence. These arrests address both prongs of their criminal activity and have restored a sense of peace and security to the people who live on East 228th Street. I want to commend all the detectives who contributed to the successful execution of these warrants."

These arrests mark the culmination of "Operation Black Flag," an undercover investigation that began in February 2002. The operation initiated as the result of a tip from a rival gang member.

KBC operated a street level drug retail outlet specializing in both crack and marijuana and catered to vehicular and walk up customers. Their members distinguished themselves by wearing black bandannas or "flags." Detectives made numerous purchases of crack from street operators and during the course of the investigation, the police also seized several weapons. Other charges against the members of the group are anticipated.