Two Arrested in Columbus Following Federal Human and Drug Trafficking Investigation

COLUMBUS, Georgia – Two men are in custody on human trafficking and drug trafficking charges following a multi-month investigation conducted in coordination with federal law enforcement partners, authorities announced.

On January 22, 2026, at approximately 7:41 p.m., members of the Columbus Police Department Special Operations Unit assisted the Drug Enforcement Administration by conducting a traffic stop on Victory Drive near 10th Avenue. The stop was part of an ongoing federal investigation into human trafficking involving sexual servitude. The vehicle was driven by 53-year-old Raul Reyes-Nepomuceno.

As the investigation progressed, search warrants were executed at two residences connected to the case, one on Lacey Oak Court and another on Clay Drive. CPD’s Special Victims Unit assisted with the execution of both warrants. Investigators recovered evidence linking both locations to human trafficking and drug trafficking activity.

During the execution of the search warrant at the Clay Drive residence, officers encountered 23-year-old Brandon Reyes-Escano, who was taken into custody at the scene.

At the Lacey Oak Court residence, officers seized approximately 47.4 grams of methamphetamine, 8.3 grams of marijuana, digital scales, glass smoking devices, two firearms, condoms, and multiple cellular phones. Items recovered from the Clay Drive residence included more than 100 condoms, a ledger, lubricant, medical products, a box of lingerie, and a Mexican passport.

Reyes-Nepomuceno and Reyes-Escano are each charged with trafficking of persons for labor or sexual servitude, trafficking methamphetamine, pimping, and keeping a place of prostitution. Both are being held at the Muscogee County Jail and are scheduled to appear in Recorder’s Court on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

The investigation was led by the DEA with assistance from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Authorities said the suspects were identified as having affiliations with Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación, and Reyes-Nepomuceno was found to be unlawfully present in the United States.

Officials noted the investigation remains ongoing.