In a major crackdown on gang violence, 19 alleged members of rival gangs have been arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit murder. The suspects are linked to over a dozen shootings that injured four innocent bystanders, including a woman who was shot in her stomach while walking her dog.
According to officials, the investigation, dubbed "Operation Red Zone," involved a 13-month collaboration between the NYPD and the Bronx District Attorney's office. The operation resulted in the arrest of an alleged gang leader, Tyreik Seth, aged 28, as well as 18 minors who are allegedly members of four rival gangs.
The shootings occurred in the Morrisania section of the Bronx, where a turf war is believed to have fueled the violence. Eyewitnesses reported that some of the incidents were particularly brazen, with one school bus being peppered with bullets while carrying students with special needs.
Prosecutors say the alleged gang members are responsible for 13 shootings and have been indicted for conspiracy to commit murder. Three additional suspects remain at large as investigators continue their hunt.
The Bronx District Attorney's office has expressed concern about the impact of gang violence on local communities, particularly young people who may be drawn into such activities.