Investigators seized more than 137,000 suspected fentanyl pills and fentanyl powder during search warrants in Federal Way and Bellingham. (Whatcom County Sheriff's Department)
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A Whatcom drug task force investigation into a Mexico-based transnational criminal organization has led to three arrests and the seizure of more than 137,000 suspected fentanyl pills.
Investigators with the Whatcom Regional Drug Task Force launched the investigation in January 2026. Detectives identified several suspected drug runners in Bellingham and traced the supply to Federal Way, according to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation has produced two search warrants, major drug seizures, and three arrests so far.
Federal Way search uncovers large fentanyl shipment
On March 4, investigators served a search warrant in Federal Way. Detectives seized 33.25 pounds of suspected fentanyl-laced pills, about 137,000 pills.
Investigators also seized 2.3 pounds of suspected fentanyl powder and about $10,000 in suspected drug proceeds.
Authorities estimate the drugs have a combined street value of more than $130,000.
Investigators arrested Alfio Felix Rivera, 22, of Federal Way. Officers booked him into the Whatcom County Jail.
Prosecutors charged Rivera with delivery of a controlled substance, possession with intent to deliver, maintaining a drug premises, and money laundering.
Bellingham warrants lead to two more arrests
On March 10, investigators served two additional search warrants in Bellingham. The locations were the 200 block of North Forest Street and the 4800 block of Northwest Avenue.
Detectives seized 1.9 pounds of suspected fentanyl powder, a handgun, and more than $15,000 in suspected drug proceeds.
Investigators arrested Omar Gaona Garcia, 26, and Jorge Ramos, 23, both of Bellingham. Officers booked both men into the Whatcom County Jail.
Prosecutors charged Gaona Garcia with three counts of delivery of a controlled substance. He also faces charges for possession with intent to deliver, maintaining a drug dwelling, and conspiracy.
Ramos faces four counts of delivery of a controlled substance. He also faces charges for possession with intent to deliver, maintaining a drug dwelling, and conspiracy.
Multi-agency investigation
Several agencies assisted the investigation. Those agencies include the DEA Bellingham Regional Office, Homeland Security Investigations, Washington State Patrol, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Bellingham Police Department, Federal Way Police Department, and Ferndale Police Department.
The Whatcom Regional Drug Task Force includes investigators from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Bellingham Police Department, and Ferndale Police Department.
Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing.
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