SAN JOSE, Cali (TNND) — A multi-agency law enforcement operation in California has led to the arrest of several members of a gang described as "ruthless." Authorities took eight suspects into custody on Wednesday, charging them with murder following a three-month investigation into a series of violent crimes linked to the Norteño criminal street gang, which operates in Soledad, King City, and Greenfield.

Authorities believe the gang was responsible for multiple homicides, including the killing of a 27-year-old man in San Jose. San Jose Police Chief Paul Joseph stated that the suspects "targeted a specific San Jose neighborhood with their evil intent," noting that the victim had no prior connection to the suspects, making the murder a "random" act of violence.

The high-profile takedown involved over 100 officers from the San Jose Police Department and multiple law enforcement agencies. Officers executed searches across 14 residences, at least 20 vehicles, and seven prison cells, seizing two rifles, a handgun, and a shotgun as evidence.

During a press conference on Friday, authorities detailed the gang's broader criminal activities, accusing its members of carrying out a "reign of brutality" across Monterey County. Joseph cited multiple violent crimes attributed to the gang, including a quadruple murder last March in which 11 people were shot, and a double homicide the month before.

One shocking crime linked to the gang was the shooting of a six-year-old child who was hit in the leg during a baptism while surrounded by family. Authorities also identified Adrian Pineda-Juarez, one of the arrested suspects, as being involved in another homicide in Monterey County in February.

“These eight young adults bought into a sick fantasy peddled by gangs to our youth—that there are no consequences for their actions,” Joseph stated. “Their prolific violence escalated with an arrogance that they could take it on the road with impunity.”

The other suspects were identified as:

• 19-year-old David Gomez-Moreno of Soledad, California
• 18-year-old Andre Novoa Greenfield of California
• 19-year-old Damien Perea Sacramento of California
• 19-year-old Diego Narez King City of California
• 19-year-old Anthony Martinez Soledad of California
• 20-year-old Eduardo Camacho-Hernandez Greenfield of California
• 19-year-old Dario Botello Elverta of California

San Jose police detectives made a key breakthrough in the case through video surveillance footage and automated license plate reader cameras, which provided crucial evidence in identifying the suspects.

While authorities consider the arrests a major victory, the investigation remains ongoing. Joseph reassured the public, saying, “To the people of San Jose, I want you to know we have stopped their reign of terror. They will not be returning to San Jose. Make no mistake, this case is far from over.”

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan praised the police department’s efforts, stating, "Families from Monterey to Sacramento are safer because of the incredible work of this department today."