In a significant law enforcement operation, federal authorities have arrested 24 individuals connected to a drug gang that has reportedly terrorized residents of public housing in Newark, New Jersey. The arrests, made by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), come as part of a crackdown on the Sex, Money, Murder gang, a local sect of the Bloods implicated in various criminal activities throughout the state.
The arrests occurred over two days, with 18 suspects taken into custody on Tuesday and one more on Wednesday. Four individuals remain at large. According to U.S. Attorney Alina Habba, the gang was responsible for trafficking dangerous drugs, including fentanyl, heroin, and crack cocaine, through the Bradley Court Housing Complex on North Munn Avenue.
“For far too long, the Bloods have overtaken the Bradley Court Housing Complex — turning its courtyards and residential buildings into a hub for pumping deadly fentanyl into the city of Newark, while endangering the lives of the citizens who call this community home,” Habba stated.
Residents Live in Fear
The sprawling operation had a profound impact on the residents of the Bradley Court Public Housing Complex, which consists of ten three-story buildings. Many tenants lived in constant fear of violence associated with gang activity, prompting them to initiate a petition in May 2022 calling for the closure of the complex. The petition garnered nearly 400 signatures and highlighted issues such as theft, gunfire, and unsafe living conditions.
The petition expressed the frustrations of homeowners, stating, “The homeowners in this community are tired of being preyed upon and victimized by theft and unsafe conditions. We often cannot let our children play outside in the front or back yards alone.”
Charges Against Suspects
Among the 24 individuals charged are many known to law enforcement, with ages ranging from 19 to 41. Key figures include:
- Shamon Freshley (a/k/a “Hitta”)
- Orlando Pizarro (a/k/a “Lando”)
- Zakir Jefferson (a/k/a “Gu,” “Tank”)
- Quayyon Johnson (a/k/a “Weeze”)
- Melvin Faines (a/k/a “Spaz”)
- Afrika Islam (a/k/a “Sexx”)
Some members are also facing charges related to a June 17 shootout with a rival gang, which involved possession of a machine gun.
Modern Tactics and Previous Arrests
The gang utilized modern technology to conduct their business, employing mobile apps such as WhatsApp, Signal, and Instagram to facilitate drug transactions. They even released music videos and songs as a means of intimidation against rival gangs and potential witnesses.
This latest operation follows a similar bust earlier in April 2025, where 26 individuals were arrested for their involvement in a drug ring terrorizing a different neighborhood in Newark. Both incidents highlight ongoing issues with gang violence and drug trafficking in the region.
Conclusion
As Newark continues to grapple with the challenges posed by gangs and drug-related violence, these arrests represent a significant step toward reclaiming safety for residents. Authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to dismantle criminal organizations that threaten community well-being.
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