Joint operation leads to Colombian drug trafficking bust in New Hanover County

Wilmington, NC (WWAY) —  The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations, has dismantled a Colombian drug trafficking organization operating within the area, according to a news release from the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office.

The month-long investigation by the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office Vice and Narcotics Division and HSI ended in the search of a home at 4119 Fairlawn Drive in Wilmington. During the search, detectives discovered clothing with unusual logos that concealed more than 1.5 kilograms of cocaine.

Cocaine seized (Photo: NHSO)

The sheriff’s office says the operation disrupted the activities of a local Colombian drug trafficking organization and led to the arrest of three suspects: Diego Falla Dussan, Christian Mauricio Villarreal, and Juan Camilo Puentes.

“Today’s operation is a victory in our fight against the spread of illegal drugs in our community,” said Sheriff Ed McMahon. “The success of this operation was made possible by the unwavering commitment and cooperation between our office and our federal partners.”

The suspects, all of whom are facing multiple felony charges for possession, trafficking, and manufacturing of cocaine, are currently held at the New Hanover County Detention Facility, each under a secured bond of more than $1 million.

Diego Falla Dussan, 34, is charged with multiple felony counts related to the possession, trafficking, and manufacturing of cocaine.

Christian Mauricio Villarreal, 25, faces similar felony charges, including possession, trafficking, and manufacturing of cocaine.

Juan Camilo Puentes, 23, is also charged with possession, trafficking, and manufacturing of cocaine.