Authorities in Oklahoma executed a search warrant at a Chinese restaurant in the early hours of Friday, May 29th, where they discovered various drugs and a firearm. A total of 16 individuals were detained by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The operation took place around 12:30 AM and was carried out by the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics’ Marijuana Enforcement Teams and the Human Trafficking Unit, targeting the Lucky Zhang Seafood Restaurant located near Northwest 23rd Street and Classen Avenue.
Law enforcement officers found quantities of methamphetamine (commonly known as crystal meth), Ketamine (also known as K powder), and ecstasy at the scene, in addition to confiscating a firearm.
Mark Woodward, a spokesperson for the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, stated that this operation is part of a long-term investigation into organized crime activities.
“This investigation involves black-market marijuana trafficking from cultivation sites across the state and its connection to individuals associated with Lucky Zhang restaurant,” Woodward said. “We are also looking into its ties to other organized crimes such as human trafficking and money laundering.”
When authorities entered the restaurant, it was filled with people who were then taken outside for questioning.
Woodward explained, “Initially, we thought this was just a restaurant, but our investigation revealed that other types of criminal activities were taking place here.”
The joint operation involved multiple agencies besides the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, including the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, ICE, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Apart from drug investigations and immigration enforcement, authorities also focused heavily on addressing issues related to human trafficking.
Victim service agencies were present on-site, interviewing several potential human trafficking victims, with assistance from “The Spring” certified shelter in Tulsa.
OBN Director Donnie Anderson expressed gratitude to their partners, specifically commending the excellent work of the staff at “The Spring” shelter who provided assistance early in the morning to ensure that any human trafficking victims at the scene received proper care.
This was not the first time the establishment had drawn law enforcement attention. Reports indicate that in 2023, the restaurant was raided by the Alcohol Beverage Laws Enforcement (ABLE) and Oklahoma City Police for operating past 2 a.m., which is illegal if the business holds a liquor license, leading to several arrests.
Currently, the 16 detained individuals are awaiting further immigration processing. Authorities have stated that the investigation is still ongoing, with the expectation of more individuals related to the case being apprehended in the future.