Major Fentanyl Bust Announced by Attorney General

Attorney General Pam Bondy revealed on Tuesday that authorities have successfully conducted one of the largest fentanyl seizures in U.S. history.

In addition to fentanyl, law enforcement seized around 35 kilos of methamphetamine, 35 kilos of methane, 7.5 kilos of cocaine, and 4.5 kilos of heroin. They also confiscated $5 million in cash along with 49 firearms, including rifles and pistols.

Several members of the Sinaloa cartel were arrested, with six of them being in the country illegally. The group’s leader, Alberto Salazar Amaya, is based in Salem, Oregon, and the drugs were intended for distribution in various locations, including Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Phoenix, Arizona.

Bondy stated, “We are extremely proud to announce the arrest of the historic Sinaloan cartel today, marking a key victory in our country’s ongoing fight against fentanyl and drug trafficking.” This announcement was made during a press conference in Washington, D.C. that involved local, state, tribal, and federal partners focusing on combatting dangerous drug trafficking.

The DEA reported seizing 11.5 kilos of fentanyl, which amounted to about 3 million pills — the most significant seizure recorded in the nation. Bondy noted that all fentanyl pills were imprinted to resemble oxycodone, showcasing a range of strengths.

She commended the DEA agents involved in the operation, acknowledging that they face daily risks in their efforts to eliminate illegal drugs from communities. Bondy referred to fentanyl as a “weapon of mass destruction,” issuing stern warnings to those distributing lethal substances.

“If we catch you, we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law. There’s no room for negotiation; we will see you behind bars,” Bondy asserted. “We won’t negotiate with those who harm families and communities.”

This article is currently being updated.