On the heels of a three-year investigation, authorities in Arizona have announced that they’ve seized thousands of pounds of methamphetamine, as well as 4.5 million fentanyl-laced pills.
According to a statement issued by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), the investigation wrapped on Thursday, and it specifically targeted the notorious Sinaloa Drug Cartel.
Throughout the course of the three-year operation, over 150 people were arrested, and 4.5 million fentanyl pills—along with 3,100 pounds of meth—were seized.
On top of the copious amounts of fentanyl pills and meth, authorities also uncovered 138 kilos of cocaine, 66 kilos of fentanyl powder, 35 kilos of heroin, 49 guns, and over $2 million in cash.
All in all, officials estimate that the total value of the seized narcotics is over $13 million, and the fentanyl alone “represents more than 30 million potentially-lethal doses.”
Regarding the seizure, DEA Special Agent in Charge Cheri Oz says Arizona authorities are determined to thwart the efforts of the Sinaloa Drug Cartel.
“DEA Arizona is laser-focused on the Sinaloa Drug Cartel. We will not stop.”
Oz also notes, “This investigation is a testament to our strong partnerships which enable us to gain the necessary advantage over these evil criminal networks.”
This sentiment is reinforced by the DEA’s statement, which asserts, “The Sinaloa Cartel is responsible for nearly all deadly narcotics flooding into Arizona.” The cartels are also described as forces that “continue to drive addiction and drug poisonings in communities nationwide.”
Additionally, Attorney General Kris Mayes says that, as many families have been impacted by “the opiod epidemic and fentanyl crisis,” she’s sure that “getting these drugs off the street will undoubtedly save lives.”
“There are few families in our state and across our country that haven’t been touched in some way by the scourge of the opioid epidemic and fentanyl crisis. I am very proud of our agents’ work and am grateful for our strong partnerships with other law enforcement agencies. Getting these drugs off the street will undoubtedly save lives.”
There are no further updates to the matter at this point in time.
