DEA Seizes Record Fentanyl in Sinaloa Cartel Bust

Federal law enforcement officials announced the largest fentanyl bust in U.S. history, dismantling a Sinaloa Cartel-linked drug trafficking ring operating across Oregon, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Nevada. Sixteen people, including alleged cartel leader Heriberto Salazar Amaya, were arrested in coordinated raids. Authorities seized over 400 kilograms of fentanyl pills, 11.5 kilograms of fentanyl powder, millions in cash, dozens of firearms, and significant quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin. The organization primarily distributed fentanyl in pill form and used sophisticated methods to shield cartel leaders from direct possession. Officials described the operation as a major blow to the Sinaloa Cartel and highlighted that fentanyl is now the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 34. The Justice Department stated that those convicted will serve their sentences in U.S. prisons.