By RACHEL C. DOVE

Staff Writer

ASHCAMP, Ky. - A police investigation that began one and a half years ago into possible drug activity in the Ashcamp community led to a major drug bust Thursday evening.

According to information released by Kentucky State Police Public Affairs Officer Shaun Little, detectives from Post 9 in Pikeville and the DE/SI East acquired three search warrants for undisclosed residences in Ashcamp.

The warrants stemmed from an investigation centered on reports of unnamed subjects trafficking the prescription drug, Oxycodone.

The search warrants resulted in the seizure of a large quantity of Oxycodone (narcotic pain reliever) and Xanax (benzodiazepine, nerve medication) pills with an estimated street value of over $1 million.

Detectives also seized approximately $80,000 in cash, as well as several firearms that were found inside the three locations.

KSP detectives were assisted at the scene by Operation UNITE officers and detectives, as well as agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigations. This case remains under investigation, and federal indictments are pending.

Names have, so far, not been released of those involved in this major drug operation.

KSP Post 9 is actively investigating the illegal sales of prescription narcotics, and they encourage citizens to report suspected dealers and prescription abuse by calling 1-800-222-5555, or 606-433-7711.