Seven men were arrested Thursday after federal investigators found nearly $5 million worth of drugs, possibly smuggled into the United States from Mexico, at homes in the Mission Grove neighborhood of Riverside.
More than 40 gallons of liquid methamphetamine, and about 40 pounds of “finished” crystal methamphetamine, were recovered inside a home in the 19000 block of White Dove Lane, according to a statement from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Aside from the liquid that could have produced hundreds of pounds of meth and been worth as much as $1,000 an ounce, investigators found equipment consistent with a drug lab, including two propane tanks hooked up to a makeshift stove for “cooking,” officials said.
Two other search warrants were issued for homes in the area, uncovering a marijuana grow operation. Authorities found 300 plants and 230 pounds of marijuana at a home in the 17000 block of Twin Lakes Drive. The processed marijuana was worth about $1 million, authorities said.
Four guns, including a stolen rifle, and $70,000 cash were also seized in the searches.
Six of the men, ages 22 to 51, are facing drug charges, officials said. The seventh person is being held for questioning in connection with a murder investigation in Sacramento. All seven men are originally from Mexico, investigators said.
Officials said the drug distribution operation has not been connected to the Mexican Cartel.
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The case is being handled by the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office.
