Multiple arrests made in Santa Cruz street gang investigation

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KTVU) - Nine arrests were made Monday morning in Santa Cruz in connection with a five-year criminal street gang investigation.

The Department of Homeland Security along with local law enforcement made the arrests. Initially more people were detained but some were later released. The operation began at 4 a.m. in various parts of the city. 

Several of the people arrested have a history of crimes including murder, extortion, and narcotics trafficking. Guns were seized Monday morning during the investigation.

The deputy chief in Santa Cruz tells KTVU they were working with the Department of Homeland Security's special investigations unit - it was not an operation with immigration and customs enforcement.  

As the operation began early Monday morning residents could hear flash bang grenades and saw officers with Department of Homeland Security vests going into homes and banging on doors. 

The nine people who were arrested were wanted in connection with a gang that had been operating in Santa Cruz for the past decade.

Anyone who wants to leave anonymous information regarding this incident can call a tip line at 831-420-5995.