Mobile Police Operation Campfire: 45 Arrests in Major Drug Bust

The Mobile Police Department’s Narcotics and Vice Unit successfully concluded a three-month-long drug enforcement operation on September 17, 2025. This operation, known as Operation Campfire, resulted in 45 arrests and substantial drug seizures throughout the Campground community. The operation involved coordinated raids with SWAT and K-9 units, marking it as one of the largest drug enforcement actions in Mobile this year.

The operation aimed to dismantle suspected drug trafficking networks through rigorous surveillance and intelligence gathering. The investigation, which concluded on September 17, 2025, resulted in the arrest of 45 individuals. Additionally, 17 search warrants were executed with the support of SWAT and K9 Units.

Operation Results and Seized Evidence

Arrests and Charges

During Operation Campfire, Mobile police executed 17 search warrants, resulting in arrests for various charges, including simple drug possession and trafficking offenses. Over the course of the operation, Mobile police served 17 search arrest warrants and arrested 45 individuals. Additionally, officers seized over $12,000 in cash.

Asset Forfeiture

Law enforcement executed raids that resulted in the seizure of over $12,000 in cash, highlighting the substantial financial scale of the targeted drug operations. These cash seizures will be subject to asset forfeiture proceedings as part of the ongoing investigations.

Tactical Operations and Law Enforcement Response

The operation showcased coordinated law enforcement tactics designed to maximize safety and effectiveness. Doors busted down, K-9s searching, and officers swarming suspected drug houses. Mobile police wrapped up a three-month crackdown they call Operation Campfire.

Multi-Unit Coordination

• SWAT teams provided tactical support for high-risk warrant executions
• K-9 units assisted in drug detection and searches
• Narcotics and Vice Unit led investigative efforts

Alabama’s Broader Drug Enforcement Context

This operation occurs against the backdrop of Alabama’s ongoing battle with drug trafficking. Methamphetamine manufacturing remains a concern in rural areas with 850 arrests in 2025, while distribution charges affecting 2,100 individuals highlight the complex network of drug crimes that impact communities statewide.

Statewide Drug Trends

Alabama continues to face challenges with various controlled substances, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, and prescription drug abuse. The state’s Central Data Repository tracks drug use trends to inform enforcement and treatment strategies.

Community Impact and Public Safety

The Campground community, previously experiencing elevated crime rates, was the primary focus of Operation Campfire. This targeted approach reflects Mobile Police Department’s strategy of addressing drug-related crime in specific neighborhoods through concentrated enforcement efforts.

Crime Reduction Strategy

Mobile Police have consistently targeted drug trafficking as a means to reduce overall violent crime rates. The department’s approach combines:

• Intelligence-led policing
• Community partnerships
• Multi-agency collaboration
• Asset forfeiture initiatives

Federal Drug Enforcement Perspective

The operation aligns with broader federal drug enforcement priorities. In 2024, DEA seized more than 60 million fentanyl-laced fake pills and nearly 8,000 pounds of fentanyl powder. The 2024 seizures are equivalent to more than 380 million lethal doses of fentanyl.

Key Takeaways

• 45 individuals arrested on drug-related charges ranging from possession to trafficking • 17 search warrants executed with SWAT and K-9 unit support over three months • $12,000+ in cash seized through asset forfeiture operations • Campground community targeted as part of focused crime reduction strategy • Operation concluded September 17, 2025 after intensive three-month investigation • Multi-unit coordination demonstrated effective law enforcement cooperation

Frequently Asked Questions