New York: Four individuals, including a retired NYPD detective, were arrested in connection with a large-scale drug smuggling case involving the transfer of narcotics from Manhattan to Staten Island. Authorities identified Shanta Xavier (44) as the main orchestrator of the group. The other arrested individuals are Xavier's wife Sophia Abinasser (37), Michael Giordano (35), and retired detective Philip Pietrundi (60). The suspects were apprehended following a six-month-long covert investigation and phone tapping.
Raids conducted at the suspects' residences led to the seizure of a substantial quantity of fentanyl, heroin, crack cocaine, and counterfeit drug manufacturing equipment. Additionally, 13 unlicensed firearms were found at the home of retired officer Philip Pietrundi. The accused were presented before the Manhattan Criminal Court, where Shanta Xavier was granted bail set at $250,000 and Philip Pietrundi at $100,000. The other two individuals were also released on bail.
Authorities stated that this drug mafia operation posed a severe threat to public safety.
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Original Malayalam report: Malayalam Daily News
