Suspects in undercover narcotics operation identified

Albuquerque police have identified the two suspects arrested Fridayin connection to an undercover narcotics operation near Central and Tramway.

According to the criminal complaint, Damian Bailey, 28, had been in contact with undercover detectives. Baily told the undercover detectives that he could get them methamphetamine “shards” for $60 and told the detectives to meet him in the area of Dunes and Whispering Sands SE.

Police say Bailey and another man identified as Edmond Vester, 28, entered the detective’s vehicle. Baily instructed the detectives to drive to the Econo Lodge near Central and Tramway NE.

According to APD, Vester exited the vehicle to get the methamphetamine. He returned to the vehicle some time later with what appeared to be the drugs requested.

A pre-determined arrest signal was given and relayed to assisting detectives in the area. Baily and Vester were immediately taken into custody without incident.

Sometime during the operation an undercover APD detective was shot by another undercover officer.

According to Chief Gordon Eden, both officers involved were wearing plain clothes.

KOB has learned from multiple sources that the officer who fired the shots was actually the lieutenant of the officer who was shot.

The officer who was shot is currently in critical condition at the University of New Mexico Hospital. Sources say he went into surgery after 2 p.m. Friday, but was out by 7 p.m. APD said he was stable after surgery, but still in “extremely critical” condition.