Explosives and drugs discovered after LA County gang raids

In recent coordinated operations on Thursday, March 21, 2025, Los Angeles County deputies worked in conjunction with the FBI to execute search warrants across 18 locations in Lancaster and Palmdale, targeting an unidentified street gang. During these raids, law enforcement officials reported a significant recovery of nearly two dozen firearms, including two AK-47-style rifles. In addition to firearms, large quantities of drugs, such as methamphetamine, were recovered. The operations led to 13 arrests, with charges primarily concerning possession of firearms, drugs, and explosives. Authorities also deployed the bomb squad during the raids, which discovered what were believed to be C-4 explosives along with a mortar, raising concerns about public safety due to the nature of these items. All suspects arrested were transported to Palmdale Sheriff's Station, where they were held on $0 bail pending court appearances on March 24. In a separate incident in St Leonards On Sea, Sussex, police responded to another situation on the same day. Officers discovered potentially life-threatening explosive chemicals at a property situated on A259 Marina, prompting immediate action to cordon off the area and evacuate residents. The police stated that a major incident had been declared although it was not classified as terror-related. A 28-year-old man was taken into custody under suspicion of creating illegal substances and making explosives for unlawful purposes. Emergency services established a 100-meter cordon around the affected properties to ensure the safety of the surrounding community, affecting 42 homes. A rest center was arranged for displaced residents at the Royal Victoria Hotel nearby, emphasizing the seriousness of the incident and the proactive measures taken by public safety officials. These two events highlight ongoing concerns regarding gang-related violence and explosive materials in urban areas. The interagency efforts of law enforcement in Los Angeles reflect an increasingly aggressive approach to tackling gang dynamics that often resort to the use of illegal weapons and drugs. In Sussex, the discovery of explosive materials, while treated separately from terrorist activities, reinforces the need for vigilance and safety measures in public spaces. Both incidents showcase a critical intersection of law enforcement, public safety, and the community's response to perceived threats. As community members cope with the disruptions caused by these operations, local leaders emphasize the importance of collaboration and support, recognizing the often interconnected nature of gang activity and the potential for violence and harm. As such, these occurrences not only raise alarms about immediate safety but also prompt discussions about long-term strategies for addressing gang influence and substance trafficking within these regions.