Police arrest 6, including manager, at Branson motel

The Branson Police Department yesterday arrested six people, including a member of the management team, at a motel in the city.

A search warrant served at the Metropolitan Hotel, 300 Schaefer Drive, discovered drugs and money counterfeiting operations, according to a news release from the city of Branson.

"This investigation aligns with the city’s efforts to hold motel management accountable for safe lodging," officials said in the release. "As a result of this investigation, a comprehensive review of the motel’s business license and inspection records is being conducted."

Law enforcement officials seized evidence of a counterfeiting operation, as well as drugs and firearms. The suspects and motel owners were not named in the release.

The Branson Police Department is working with the Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives on the investigation. Police also are communicating with the Taney County prosecuting attorney's office and the Missouri Division of Probation and Parole on charges.