A massive cocaine trafficking ring has been dismantled in Las Vegas, with six defendants facing federal charges in connection with the operation. The joint law enforcement operation, known as ‘Operation Money Maker,’ was a global effort involving nine agencies.
At the center of the operation is Barak Amar, a 51-year-old Las Vegas resident who is accused of conspiring with others to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance. Amar faces one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and one count of distribution of a controlled substance, carrying a statutory maximum penalty of 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine, and at least four years of supervised release.
Arshak Arayan, a 41-year-old Los Angeles resident, is also accused of conspiring to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine. He faces one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and six counts of distribution of a controlled substance, with a statutory maximum penalty of 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine, and at least four years of supervised release.
Ofir Frieden, a 38-year-old San Jose resident, is accused of conspiring to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and engaging in a massive money laundering scheme. He faces 45 counts of money laundering, eight counts of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, and ten counts of distribution of a controlled substance, with a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The other defendants in the case include Djekem Kedoshim, a 31-year-old Seattle resident who is accused of using a business check to launder money for the operation; Moshe Malka, a 36-year-old Las Vegas resident who is accused of depositing illegal cash proceeds into his bank account and writing checks to co-conspirators; and Shine True, a 39-year-old Phoenix resident who is accused of doing the same.
The operation was the result of a global joint investigation that involved the FBI and law enforcement agencies from around the world. Acting U.S. Attorney Christopher Chiou praised the efforts of the law enforcement agencies involved in the operation, saying, ‘Our office appreciates the opportunity to partner with the FBI and law enforcement agencies across the world to combat the flow of cocaine into our communities and stop the laundering of illegal drug proceeds.’
The case serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of cocaine trafficking and money laundering on communities. If convicted, the defendants face significant penalties, including decades in prison and hefty fines. The case will continue to unfold in the coming weeks and months.
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Key Facts
- State: Nevada
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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