By Amanda Cedrone Globe Correspondent

Fifteen people were arrested on drug-related charges Friday, the latest in police efforts to crack down on illegal drug activity in South Boston, Boston police said.

“Officers will continue a targeted effort focused on individuals involved in the illegal drug trade which negatively affects quality of life for hardworking, law-abiding South Boston residents,” said Boston Police Commissioner Edward F. Davis, in a statement on Friday.

Those arrested face charges including possession and distribution of Class A, B, and C substances, and intent to distribute, the statement said.

Another individual was issued a summons for alleged possession of a Class B substance.

The drug sweep was named “Operation Three Ring” and involved undercover operations by members of the Drug Control Unit and Youth Violence Strike Force, police said.

The 16 individuals involved were targeted for outstanding warrants related to drug offenses, the statement said.

“I would like to commend the Drug Control Unit and the Youth Violence Strike Force on this latest initiative and encourage South Boston residents to participate in our continued public safety efforts,” Davis said.

In April, police began cracking down on the illegal drug trade in South Boston following the fatal stabbing of a 67-year-old grandmother by a man who allegedly broke into her home, hoping to find fishing gear he could steal and then sell to feed his drug habit.

Suffolk prosecutors allege that Timothy Kostka broke into the home of Barbara Coyne, 67, on Patriots Day in order to steal high-end fishing equipment. When Kostka encountered Coyne, he allegedly stabbed her to death.