Tulare County Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested 12 people and seized multiple firearms during a targeted New Year’s Eve gang suppression operation conducted across north and south Tulare County, authorities said.

The enforcement detail took place around 4 p.m. on Wednesday and focused on individuals involved in criminal activity, including suspects with active warrants and those connected to firearm-related offenses.

Arrests were made for allegations including negligent discharge of a firearm, possession of stolen firearms and possession of unregistered firearms, according to the sheriff’s office.

Detectives recovered eight firearms during the operation, including seven handguns — one of which was confirmed to be stolen — and one assault-style rifle. High-capacity magazines and assorted ammunition were also seized.

During the detail, investigators also located a vehicle believed to be connected to an ongoing homicide investigation, providing additional leads for detectives, authorities said.

All individuals arrested were safely booked into either the Pretrial Detention Facility or the South County Detention Facility without incident.

Got a Tip?

Anyone with information related to the investigation is encouraged to contact Detective A. Figueroa or Detective T. Peek with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office at (559) 733-6218.

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling or texting (559) 725-4194 or emailing tcso@tipnow.com.

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