SAN JOSE, Calif. - Raids conducted in California Monday by FBI agents, along with state and local forces, targeted a street gang called the Taliban, authorities say.
Authorities said the early-morning raids in Palo Alto, San Jose and other communities represented the culmination of an 18-month investigation into the Taliban's criminal dealings, the San Jose Mercury News reported.
FBI investigators allege the gang has been involved in drug trafficking, robberies and homicides.
Raids also took place in Menlo Park, Sunnyvale, Redwood City, Gilroy, Stockton and San Francisco.
Twenty-nine search warrants were served in conjunction with the raids and FBI SWAT teams from four cities were took part.
The FBI said the gang's name was chosen for mere shock value as the group has no known affiliation with the Taliban Muslim extremist group.
Authorities told the Mercury News the raids resulted in the seizure of 14 handguns, two assault rifles, 10 automobiles, $240,000 in cash and various illegal drugs.
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