The recent drug arrests are part of a larger initiative to combat drugs in bars in Raleigh

RALEIGH, NC (WTVD) – After months of investigations into bars in downtown Raleigh, special agents with the North Carolina Alcohol and Liquor Enforcement (ALE) have charged employees and customers with drug offenses.

Two employees of The Big Easy are accused of possessing and selling cocaine. A customer of The Big Easy faces even more charges, namely possession and sale of cocaine and marijuana.

A Davie customer was arrested for possession and sale of cocaine and marijuana.

In addition, two Cardinal customers were arrested for possession and sale of marijuana.

This latest raid is part of a larger initiative to combat illegal drug and alcohol use in downtown businesses.

SEE ALSO: After months of investigations by ALE, employees and customers are threatened with drug offenses

A Raleigh firefighter and his wife were arrested earlier this month on suspicion of running a drug trafficking ring out of businesses in downtown Raleigh and Glenwood South following an investigation by the ALE (Aging Administration on Drugs and Crime).

An ALE investigation also resulted in charges against employees of the Armadillo Grill and the Botanical Lounge, both in Glenwood South. The ABC Commission ultimately decided to suspend the Armadillo Grill’s liquor license due to the illegal activities, leading to the establishment’s closure.

The ALE will now send its investigation reports to the ABC Commission, which will ultimately decide whether The Big Easy will be fined, suspended or have its liquor license revoked following the drug-related arrests.

The Cardinal may also face sanctions from the ABC Commission after an investigation found that some of his employees drank alcohol while on the job.