24 more arrested after pharmacies across the country burglarized for drugs [Video]

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – Two dozen more individuals have been arrested for their roles in a drug trafficking ring that has burglarized hundreds of pharmacies across the nation, including in rural Kansas and Missouri.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration announced on Thursday, Aug. 29, that agents have seen an increase in burglaries at independent pharmacies nationwide. Nearly 900 burglaries that involved the theft of controlled substances were reported in 2023.

Agents noted that stolen prescription medication not only has an impact on these small businesses but also puts patients and the community at risk.

On Wednesday morning, representatives of the DEA joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Arkansas to announce the results of a nearly 2-year investigation into a Houston-based drug trafficking organization. The culprits are allegedly responsible for hundreds of pharmacy burglaries across the nation.

Law enforcement officials indicated that 24 members of the Houston organization were arrested following another 24 who were arrested in December.