Two men from Beaufort County remain in jail after authorities say they were involved in a major methamphetamine trafficking operation with ties to Mexico. The suspects, Ulises Lopez and Ismael Sandoval, have been linked to a Mexico-based drug network and face multiple charges, including drug trafficking.
Greenville police reported that the investigation led to a significant drug seizure during a traffic stop on Greenville Boulevard on January 16. Officers confiscated approximately 60 pounds of crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice,” with an estimated street value of $500,000. Authorities say the seizure was a crucial part of disrupting the drug operation.
The arrests were the result of a month-long investigation conducted by the Greenville Regional Drug Task Force in collaboration with several law enforcement agencies. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office all contributed to the effort. Officials say the extensive operation aimed to dismantle a significant drug pipeline that supplied methamphetamine to the region.
Both Lopez and Sandoval, who are 40 years old, were taken into custody following the traffic stop and investigation. Due to the severity of the charges, each suspect was issued a bond of $4 million. Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the scope of the operation and any potential connections to larger drug trafficking networks.
Authorities emphasize that this case highlights the ongoing battle against large-scale drug distribution operations in North Carolina. They say the successful coordination among local, state, and federal agencies played a crucial role in intercepting a substantial quantity of illegal drugs before they could reach the streets. Officials also encourage the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that may be linked to drug trafficking.
Further legal proceedings are expected as Lopez and Sandoval face the charges against them. If convicted, they could face significant prison sentences due to the amount of methamphetamine involved and the organized nature of the operation.
