Boston Police Seize Over 2 Kilograms of Fentanyl, 5 Arrested

URGENT UPDATE: Boston Police have seized over two kilograms of fentanyl and arrested five suspects in a major operation targeting drug trafficking in the city’s Southwest Corridor area. This raid comes in response to escalating community concerns about drug activity following the closure of the Mass and Cass tent-city and its notorious open-air drug market.

The police operation, confirmed today, involved a collaborative effort among multiple units, including the Boston Police Department, Massachusetts State Police, MBTA Police, and the Youth Violence Strike Force. Officers executed search warrants at three locations: 176 Stratton St. in Dorchester, 127 Hazelton St. in Mattapan, and 1059 Tremont St. in Roxbury.

According to a statement from the police, the operation yielded not only the fentanyl but also thirty-two rounds of ammunition, digital scales, drug packaging materials, and over $3,000 in cash. Community members have been vocal about the increased drug activity, prompting authorities to take decisive action to restore safety.

Among those arrested are Ricky Wilson Soto-Arias, 36, and Doris Baez, 37, both from Dorchester and Mattapan, respectively. They face serious charges, including trafficking Class A drugs and unlawful possession of ammunition. The others arrested are Bryan Mejia, 31, Jeil Hernandez, 44, and Stephen Smith, 37, all from Boston. Smith also faces separate charges related to breaking and entering and larceny.

Boston continues to grapple with the ongoing opioid crisis, exacerbated by spillover effects from the Mass and Cass area. The recent raid signifies the city’s commitment to combatting the drug epidemic and protecting its residents.

Authorities report that this operation is part of a broader strategy to address drug trafficking and enhance community safety. With drug-related incidents on the rise, this situation remains developing, and residents are urged to remain vigilant.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.