Illegal East Bay Gambling Den Bust Leads To 3 Arrests: Police

OAKLAND, CA — Police say they busted an illegal gambling den in Oakland, leading to the arrest of three people for outstanding warrants.

A recent shooting, ongoing complaints from neighbors and a history of violence where the den is located in the 1400 block of 17th Street prompted authorities to begin looking into the place, according to the Oakland Police Department.

It's unclear when the investigation began, but federal and local law enforcement agents were able to gather enough evidence to secure a search warrant for the den.

Authorities served the warrant at the den on Thursday and found drugs, a gun, cash and gambling equipment inside, police said.

Three people were taken into custody on outstanding warrants. Police did not identify any of them or say if any of them are accused of operating the den.

"This operation highlights the diligent efforts of OPD officers to address crime and enhance community safety," police said in a statement. "OPD would like to thank community members for reporting illegal activities and encourage residents to continue reporting illegal gambling or other dangerous activities to help keep neighborhoods safe."