The Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) Rocky Mountain Field Division announced Thursday the seizure of more than 570,000 fentanyl pills over the past week.
This significant operation, conducted between June 7th and June 14th, represents a major blow to the illegal distribution of this deadly synthetic opioid in the region.
The seized pills, many disguised as prescription medications, highlight the deceptive tactics used by drug traffickers to lure unsuspecting victims.
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Fentanyl, a highly potent opioid, is often mixed with other drugs or pressed into counterfeit pills, making it difficult for users to identify and leading to a surge in overdose deaths across the country.
This seizure is part of the DEA's ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis and disrupt the flow of illicit drugs into communities. The Rocky Mountain Field Division, which covers Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana, has been particularly proactive in addressing the fentanyl epidemic, which has ravaged the region in recent years.
“The total number of pills seized so far this month proves the Mexican drug cartels are not slowing down production and distribution of this poison as we head into the summer months,” said DEA RMFD Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Pullen. “Every day the men and women of DEA and our partner agencies are working hard to get fake fentanyl pills of the streets.”
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The DEA's Rocky Mountain Field Division encourages anyone with information about the illegal distribution of fentanyl or other illicit substances to contact their local DEA office or submit a tip online.
“As seen by the totals, Colorado is on pace to easily break last year’s fake fentanyl pill seizure record of 2.61 million. Keep in mind, DEA lab testing shows seven of every ten pills contain a potentially fatal dose of fentanyl. Seizing another 570,000 pills in Colorado means many lives have likely been saved,” Pullen added.
The agency also emphasizes the importance of education and awareness campaigns to inform the public about the dangers of fentanyl and the resources available for those struggling with addiction.
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