Two people arrested in connection to drug operation in Whatcom County

Authorities arrested two individuals in Whatcom County tied to a fentanyl drug operation. Hilario Adame-Monreal, 32, is accused of selling fentanyl and laundering money for a transnational criminal organization based in Mexico. Over a three-month investigation, undercover officers made three purchases of fentanyl from him. During his arrest in a traffic stop, officers recovered an additional $4,000, in addition to the $13,000 he was found with earlier. The investigation also led to the arrest of 73-year-old Arthur Villalon, who allegedly allowed drug activities on his property.

Villalon's residence had previously housed a suspect in the shooting of a Lummi Nation Police Officer, underscoring the area's drug-related violence. The Whatcom Gang and Drug Task Force continues to address these issues to enhance community safety. This operation reflects broader concerns about the impact of drug trafficking in local neighborhoods.