Edmond police bust major drug operation at local AirBnB property, 9 arrested

EDMOND, OK (KOKH) — The Edmond Police Department (EPD) has arrested nine people who are accused of selling drugs out of an Airbnb rental near Santa Fe Avenue and Edmond Road.

According to EPD, officers responded to a report of suspicious activity at the AirBnB rental property on December 9. It all came after concerns were raised due to the number of people there in less than a day.

There were also suspicions because large bags of marijuana were being taken to and from the house.

Upon approaching the residence, EPD said officers observed approximately six pounds of packaged marijuana near the front door and detected a strong odor of raw marijuana coming from inside.

Police one individual was apprehended after attempting to flee through the backdoor with a bag of marijuana.

Eight more suspects in the home were identified and taken into custody.

Officers then called the Edmond Police Special Investigations Unit (SIU) to assist because it was recognized through other incidents where short-term rentals were exploited for temporary drug distribution.

Detective Josh Smith and members of the SIU responded, obtaining a search warrant that was later authorized and executed on the premises.

Officials said detectives found more than 30 pounds of packaged marijuana, drug paraphernalia (including vacuum seal bags and a vacuum sealer machine), and $18,256 in US currency.

 

The following Nine individuals were placed under arrest and charged with Distribution of Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS) and Conspiracy to Distribute CDS:

• Brian Bae
• Bin Chen
• Fenshou Chen
• Guangji Lin
• Li Youe
• Lichun Yu
• Gaomin Zheng
• Yun Dun Zheng
• Weiqiang Zhou

The Edmond Police Department remains vigilant in our commitment to ensuring a secure and drug-free environment for residents and visitors alike. – EPD