DEA Announces Largest Fentanyl Seizure in US History: 3 Million Pills

Record-Breaking Fentanyl Seizure

• 🎯 The DEA, in a multi-agency operation, announced the largest seizure in US history, confiscating approximately 3 million fentanyl pills and 11.5 kilos of fentanyl powder.
• 💡 These pills were stamped as oxycodone and contained various strengths of fentanyl, highlighting a dangerous deception.
• ⚠️ Fentanyl is described as a weapon of mass destruction, responsible for 75,000 American deaths annually and the leading cause of death for individuals aged 18-34.

Organization and Leadership

• 🧠 The operation targeted the Citelloa organization, identified as one of the largest and most dangerous drug trafficking groups in the country, with ties to the Sinaloa cartel.
• 👤 The alleged leader, Alberto Salazar Amaya, an illegal alien from Mexico with prior removals, was apprehended in Salem, Oregon.
• 🌐 The drug operation spanned multiple states, including New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, and Utah, with precursors originating from China and distribution through Mexico.

Scope of the Bust

• 💰 Approximately $5 million in cash was seized, along with 35 kilos of methamphetamine, 7.5 kilos of cocaine, 4.5 kilos of heroin, and 49 rifles and pistols.
• 🛠️ The investigation involved over 55,000 hours of law enforcement work, demonstrating significant dedication and effort.
• ⚖️ Sixteen individuals have been arrested, facing federal charges for conspiracy and distribution of fentanyl, along with firearms and immigration violations.

Broader Implications and Warnings

• 🗣️ Officials emphasized that fentanyl is being mixed into other drugs like Xanax, Adderall, and Molly to induce addiction.
• 📢 A strong warning was issued to the public, urging extreme caution with recreational drugs due to the high likelihood of fentanyl contamination.
• 🤝 The operation showcased extraordinary inter-agency cooperation between federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement agencies.