Seven Chinese nationals charged in multimillion-dollar marijuana operation

Seven Chinese nationals living in Massachusetts have been charged in connection with a multimillion-dollar drug-trafficking organization that allegedly grew and distributed marijuana across the U.S. Northeast. The FBI’s Boston Division arrested members of the alleged Chinese-run drug trafficking organization, which is accused of running a massive marijuana cultivation and distribution scheme that has raked in millions and contributed widely to the illegal drug trade in the region.

The scheme allegedly involved interconnected grow houses that cultivated and distributed marijuana. Chinese nationals were smuggled into the U.S. for the purpose of working in these houses until they paid off their debts related to being smuggled into the country. The accused individuals made millions of dollars from the marijuana sales, using the proceeds to buy cars, luxury homes, jewelry, and other items.

Each of the Chinese nationals were charged with one count of conspiracy to manufacture, distribute, and possess with intent to distribute marijuana. Some were also indicted on additional charges, including bringing aliens into the country, money laundering, and more. The defendants include Jianxiong Chen, Yuxiong Wu, Dinghui Li, Dechao Ma, Peng Lian Zhu, Hongbin Wu, and Yanrong Zhu. Six defendants, excluding fugitive Yanrong Zhu, were arrested on Tuesday.

A home in Braintree, Massachusetts, was reportedly the base of the drug-trafficking organization’s operations. During a search of the home in October of last year, law enforcement discovered more than $270,000 in cash on the property as well as several Chinese passports. Searches of additional houses resulted in law enforcement finding nearly $200,000 in cash, more than 240 pounds of marijuana, and a Rolex watch.

Hongbin Wu and Yanrong Zhu were also reportedly stopped by law enforcement in June 2023 after leaving a Massachusetts grow house, at which point nearly $37,000 in cash was seized from them. It is alleged that the enterprise conducted bulk cash transactions with operators located in the Eastern District of New York.

The case is part of the nationwide initiative Operation Take Back America, established by the U.S. Department of Justice to address illegal immigration and combat transnational criminal organizations. The U.S. Department of Justice did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.

In conclusion, the arrest of these Chinese nationals highlights the ongoing issue of drug trafficking and illegal immigration in the U.S. Northeast. The authorities are taking action to combat these criminal activities and ensure the safety and security of the region.