NEWARK, N.J. — A teenage Bloods gang member was arrested Wednesday in a sweeping multi-agency raid in Newark — with newly appointed interim New Jersey U.S. Attorney Alina Habba on the front lines.
Zakiyy Houser, 18, was taken into custody during a joint operation involving 22 agents from the U.S. Marshals Service, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and local law enforcement agencies. Houser, who has a record of prior weapons charges, was wanted in connection with an aggravated assault case in which two people were allegedly shot.
The arrest unfolded as part of a broader crackdown on violent offenders, including suspects tied to gang activity, child exploitation, and assaults on law enforcement officers. Habba, the former attorney for Donald Trump, joined agents during the early morning hours of the raid.
“What an amazing day with our law enforcement — U.S. Marshals and NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force,” Habba posted on social media following the operation. “Hit the streets hard in my great state of NJ from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m. with these unsung heroes.”
The coordinated effort is part of an ongoing law enforcement initiative to target violent fugitives across the region. Authorities indicated that three additional suspects connected to separate shooting incidents remain at large.
Officials confirmed multiple arrests were made Wednesday, including individuals wanted for gang-related crimes, child exploitation, and assaulting a law enforcement officer. Further details on the remaining suspects and pending charges are expected in the coming days.
Habba’s presence on the scene marked a visible shift in leadership style as she steps into the role following her appointment as interim U.S. attorney.