Law enforcement has taken into custody six teens along with a 23-year-old individual believed to be involved in a destructive graffiti conflict between competing street gangs in Thousand Oaks.

On Friday, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office revealed that arrests took place as part of a collaborative initiative involving multiple law enforcement agencies throughout the month of March.

According to a statement from the sheriff’s office, there was an increase in graffiti vandalism linked to competing street gangs last month, resulting in significant financial losses for the city of Thousand Oaks.

“This graffiti encompassed multiple areas throughout the city, resulting in damage totaling over $5,000,” stated the release.

Information remains scarce, and authorities have yet to release additional details about the nature of the graffiti observed or whether any specific structures or locations were affected.

Members of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office, including the East County Special Enforcement Unit, Thousand Oaks Directed Enforcement Unit, Moorpark Special Enforcement Unit, and Thousand Oaks Patrol Services, took part in this operation.

Authorities successfully identified and apprehended seven individuals linked to graffiti vandalism and involvement in a criminal street gang.

Authorities reported that the two individuals were taken into custody at the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility. The sheriff’s office has confirmed the identities of the individuals as Cesar Gonzalez, 18, from Moorpark, and Joselin Lopez, 23, from Thousand Oaks.

Authorities have revealed that the additional individuals involved include a 13-year-old, two 16-year-olds, and two 17-year-olds, all of whom are male and reside in Thousand Oaks.

Authorities reported that four of the minors were placed in the Ventura County Juvenile Justice Facility, while one minor was released to their parents with a written commitment to attend court.

The Thousand Oaks Police Department urges residents to promptly report any suspicious individuals or vehicles by dialing 911 or the non-emergency number at 805-654-9511.

The department emphasized the importance of vigilance, encouraging individuals to report any suspicious activity they may observe.

“If you see something, say something,” urged the department. “The reporting party may remain anonymous.”