The Nation - News from April 17, 1989

More than a dozen people were arrested in Washington during an anti-drug sweep that netted the alleged leadership of a group that controlled much of the cocaine market in the nation’s capital. Among those arrested were Rayful Edmond Jr., 24, and Tony Lewis, described as being in his mid-20s. Officials said the two operated a network that controlled up to 20% of the cocaine and crack traffic in Washington. The Washington Post said 16 were arrested, while other reports put the number as high as 25. Police did not release an official figure. The Post quoted sources as saying the pair’s alleged drug network employed more than 150 people and has been linked to scores of homicides. Edmond and Lewis were arrested on cocaine distribution charges. The arrests resulted from a two-year joint investigation conducted by federal authorities and district police.