Federal authorities in California this week broke up an alleged drug trafficking ring and indicted 19 people, including two from Hawai'i, on charges of conspiracy and distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine.

The indictments were unsealed Wednesday and were the result of a two-year investigation by federal and local authorities in California.

The methamphetamine network operated primarily in San Mateo and San Francisco and distributed narcotics throughout the Bay Area as well as Hawai'i, said Kevin Ryan, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California.

Among those indicted were: Cenon R. Polintan, 32, of Waipahu; and Hiliaumeniueva Tokotaha, 24, of Honolulu. The two are scheduled to appear at a detention hearing at 1:30 p.m. Monday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kevin Chang.

The extent of Hawai'i's role in the distribution ring was not revealed, but authorities seized about 38 pounds of pure crystal methamphetamine that was destined for the Islands in December 2005, according to a search warrant affidavit. The drugs were hidden in sealed one-gallon food cans, the affidavit said.

In the past year, agents have recovered 42 pounds of methamphetamine, about 115 pounds of cocaine, 12 firearms, including three assault rifles, and $1.4 million in cash. The Drug Enforcement Administration estimated that the street value of the drugs alone was more than $4.5 million.

Reach Curtis Lum at culum@honoluluadvertiser.com.