Law enforcement authorities say they have arrested 10 suspected members of a gang operating in Southern New England after an investigation that lasted more than a year and a half.

The arrests of purported members of the MS-13 gang were made early Wednesday in Providence, Pawtucket, and Johnston, RI and in New Bedford. The round-up was a joint operation by Providence police, the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the Drug Enforcement Agency and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Providence Police Chief Hugh Clements says the Mara Salvatrucha gang is well-organized and responsible for a series of violent crimes.

14 arrest warrants were issued but only 10 people have been arrested so far. Authorities seized automatic weapons, a sawed off shotgun, $400,000 in cash, and plan to deport at least two of the suspects. (AP)

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