The eight men and three women were being held at the main police station’s cellblock today.

Police are seeking to charge them on drug offenses committed in the federally designated Chinatown "Weed & Seed" district. Conviction under the federal statute carries a one-year prison sentence.

Police Maj. Michael Tucker of Central Honolulu District said 15 officer from three districts — Central Honolulu, East Honolulu and Kalihi — were involved in the sting operation, which started with the arrest of drug dealers at the corner of North Kukui and River streets. The operation lasted from noon to about 3 p.m.

Those arrested were booked for third-degree promotion of dangerous drugs.