In the Worcester region, a joint investigation results to the arrest of a gun and narcotics traffick

WORCESTER, MASSACHUSETTS —

A man thought to be a high-impact gun and guns trafficker was arrested following an investigation by the Massachusetts State Police Gang Unit, Worcester Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

The Massachusetts State Police Special Tactical Operations Team apprehended Luis "Panda" Ortiz, 24, of Worcester at a home on Pleasant Street in Worcester.

Ortiz was accused with illegally selling weapons, ammo, and fentanyl, among other gun and narcotics violations.

Ortiz's inquiry began last month, when MSP Gang Unit Troopers discovered evidence that he was in possession of many illegal guns.

Investigators began arranging covert narcotics and firearms transactions from Ortiz.

An AR-15 rifle, two untraceable "ghost gun" handguns, two revolvers, a 50-round high-capacity drum magazine, and a quantity of suspected fentanyl were among the items purchased.

Another deal was made with Ortiz on Thursday afternoon for more than 100 grams of fentanyl.

MSP STOP Team Troopers converged after the purchase was completed and detained Ortiz without incident.

He was arrested and detained at the Worcester Police Department until his appearance in Worcester District Court on Friday.

Because Ortiz is accused of actively selling weapons and narcotics, this inquiry is anticipated to have a significant impact on public safety.