Oakland Police Assistant Chief James Beere announced the arrest of eight suspected Sureños gang members, believed to be responsible for dozens of violent crimes in the Bay Area, including 31 homicides. Of these homicides, 24 occurred in Oakland.
The arrests followed a coordinated effort on Wednesday involving the Oakland Police Department (OPD), Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and U.S. Marshals Service. Authorities served ten search warrants—eight in Oakland, one in Modesto, and one in Stockton—resulting in eight arrests.
“These gang members have caused lasting damage to our community for years,” said Assistant Chief Beere. “Their violent actions have left families mourning and communities forever changed.”
Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee addressed the victims’ families: “To the families of victims: You have not been forgotten. This operation represents years of investigative work, coordination across multiple agencies, and a shared determination to break the cycles of violence that have devastated too many Oakland families. It demonstrates our commitment to pursue justice relentlessly and work with every resource and partner necessary to hold those responsible to account.”
A total of twelve suspects have been identified during this investigation. Eight were arrested during this operation; two were already in custody; two remain at large.
Officer Jose Barocio has led this nine-year investigation since it began in December 2016. He noted that “these two gangs were also involved in attempted murders, shootings, firearm trafficking, and robberies, as well as numerous shootings that have continued into 2025.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office has filed federal charges against nine suspects while three others face state charges. During the investigation, officers recovered two firearms connected to those involved.
Assistant Chief Beere commended all participating law enforcement agencies: “Oakland Police officers have worked tirelessly to bring justice in this case. We’re grateful to the men and women of the Oakland Police Department, our law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office for their continued support.
I want to recognize Officer Barocio for his continued dedication and commitment to pursuing justice for our community in this case and every case he handles, helping to make Oakland a safer place for all residents,” said Assistant Chief Beere.
