Mexico Seizes 20M Fentanyl Doses Worth $394M Amid Trump Tariff Threats

Dec 7, 2024, 04:18 AM

Mexican authorities have announced the largest fentanyl seizure in the country's history, confiscating over a ton (1,000 kg) of the synthetic opioid in Sinaloa. The operation, led by the Mexican Navy, resulted in the seizure of 20 million doses of fentanyl worth $394 million and the arrest of two individuals. The region, dominated by the Sinaloa Cartel, has seen escalating violence, with over 50 murders reported recently. The record-breaking bust follows threats by former U.S. President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on Mexico to curb drug trafficking and migration. While Mexican officials, including President Claudia Sheinbaum, stated the operation was long-planned, analysts have speculated it was influenced by Trump's warnings. U.S. President Joe Biden commended Sheinbaum's leadership in the operation and noted a 14% reduction in opioid overdose deaths in the United States, attributing the success to collaborative efforts between the two countries. The seized fentanyl was sufficient to potentially affect 15% of the U.S. population.