Reports from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Mexico Seizes Record 1.5 Tons of Fentanyl in Sinaloa, Prompting Praise from Biden and Crenshaw

Dec 7, 2024, 04:34 AM

Mexican authorities have made the largest fentanyl seizure in the country's history, confiscating over 1.5 tons of the synthetic opioid in Sinaloa, a region dominated by the Sinaloa Cartel. This operation, led by the Mexican Navy, resulted in two arrests amid escalating violence. The seizure, equivalent to 20 million doses valued at $394 million, was praised by both U.S. President Joe Biden and Republican Congressman Dan Crenshaw. Biden commended Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum for her leadership, noting that the seized fentanyl could have killed 15% of Americans. He also highlighted a 14% reduction in U.S. opioid overdose deaths, attributing it to collaborative efforts between the U.S. and Mexico. Crenshaw acknowledged the bold actions taken by Mexico's security strategy under Sheinbaum and Secretary Omar García Harfuch against drug trafficking. The operation's timing has led to speculation about its connection to former President Donald Trump's threats of imposing tariffs on Mexico.