Federal agents raided an underground nightclub in Colorado Springs early Sunday morning, uncovering a troubling scene. Among those detained were more than a dozen active-duty U.S. military members, some of whom were working as armed security for the illicit operation.
DEA Rocky Mountain Field Division Special Agent in Charge John Pullen briefed reporters shortly after the raid. He revealed that military personnel were not only guarding the illegal club but were also involved in criminal activity taking place inside.
Drugs, Guns, and Violence Found at the Scene
Authorities described the club as a hotbed of illegal behavior. “This was an underground venue hosting serious drug trafficking, prostitution, and violent crimes,” Pullen stated.
During the operation, agents seized multiple firearms and a significant quantity of narcotics.
Out of the estimated 200 people present, ICE agents arrested more than 100 individuals identified as illegal immigrants.
💥 200+ inside an underground nightclub in CO Springs had their illegal party upended this am.#DEA RMFD, @ERODenver, @FBIDenver, @ATF_Denver, @HSIDenver, @CSPDPIO, @EPCSheriff & others seized drugs/guns. 100+ illegals arrested. pic.twitter.com/L5FOOyAlX3
— DEARockyMountain (@DEAROCKYMTNDiv) April 27, 2025
Links to Violent Gangs
The nightclub had drawn the attention of authorities after a months-long undercover investigation. Agents reported spotting members of several violent gangs inside, including Tren de Aragua, MS-13, and Hells Angels.
Pullen noted that while gang members were observed during the investigation, it remains unclear if any were taken into custody during the raid.
Military Members Under Investigation
When asked about the involvement of military personnel, Pullen confirmed that more than a dozen active-duty service members were either working security or visiting the club as patrons.
“This is an ongoing investigation,” he said. “The Army’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) was present with us during the operation and will handle disciplinary action for those involved.”
Pullen added, “Anyone who walks into a nightclub at 3 a.m. likely knows what kind of environment they’re entering.”
At this stage, none of the service members have been formally charged. DEA officials confirmed to Fox News that they remain detained while Army CID continues its investigation.
Army CID Takes the Lead
Asked about potential charges facing the detained troops, Pullen emphasized that Army CID would decide next steps.
“They are our partners in this operation and are taking the military aspect of this case very seriously,” he said.
Colorado Springs’ Military Presence
Pullen acknowledged the area’s large military footprint, noting the proximity of bases like Fort Carson, but declined to say if any detained service members were stationed there.
“We can’t confirm their base assignment at this time,” he said.
WATCH: DEA Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Pullen describes the federal operation this morning at an illegal nightclub in Colorado Springs. Some active duty military, as well as gang members and many people in the U.S. illegally, were among those detained. pic.twitter.com/21PrvrBU7m
— Denver7 News (@DenverChannel) April 27, 2025
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