in federal drug dragnet

The SeaTac and Tukwila Police Departments participated in an international drug raid last week.

One location in SeaTac was raided and two SeaTac men were arrested as a result.

The investigation began 18 months ago in New York City. Federal Drug Enforcement Agents were able to link suspects to Seattle after five months of investigation.

Eighteen people were arrested and charged with conspiracy to import and distribute khat. Khat is a plant harvested in Eastern Africa and chewed for its stimulant effect.

"These defendants were looking to make easy money at the expense of their fellow immigrants," said U.S. Attorney John McKay.

"We will not let their greed shatter the hopes and dreams of other hard working immigrant families who have fled the chaos of their homeland."

Nationally, authorities were able to seize more than five tons of khat worth more than $2 million.

Those indicted allegedly smuggled 25 tons of khat with a street value of more that $25 million.

No money triggers assault

Two 16-year-old boys were assaulted while walking in the 22000 block of 9th Ave. S. on July 29 around 10 p.m.

They were walking along the road when a small red car circled and pulled next to them. Three men got out of the car. One suspect had a knife.

The suspect with the knife told one of the victims to give him money. When he said he didn't have any money on him, another suspect punched him in the face and shoved him.

All suspects left in the car. The victims walked on home and called 9-1-1.

D.M. marijuana arrest

A man was arrested for possession of marijuana in Des Moines on Aug. 1 around 9 a.m.

While on patrol a Des Moines Police Officer saw a man walking down the center of 29th Ave. S. in Des Moines.

The officer recognized the suspect and pulled over to talk with him.

The suspect had his hands in his pockets and refused to take them out when the officer ordered to see his hands.

The officer put the suspect in handcuffs and saw a baggie of marijuana hanging from his front pocket. There was less than 40 grams in the bag.

He was arrested and taken to the King County Regional Justice Center.

Compiled by Sara Loken