U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has reported a significant increase in drug seizures for the month of August 2023. Despite a decrease in migration rates compared to the previous year, the agency has seen a surge in the seizure of dangerous narcotics.
Troy A. Miller, the Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner for U.S. Customs and Border Protection, emphasized the agency's commitment to combating transnational criminal organizations and protecting vulnerable migrants. He stated, "CBP remains vigilant in the face of ruthless smugglers and transnational criminal organizations who exploit vulnerable migrants, the same criminal organizations trafficking in lethal drugs that harm our communities."
CBP has been actively working to disrupt drug trafficking and illegal migration through various operations. In June 2023, they launched Operations Artemis and Rolling Wave, aimed at disrupting fentanyl supply chains. These operations have yielded significant results, with nearly 10,000 pounds of fentanyl seized in a two-month period. Additionally, Operation Artemis has led to the interception of over 8,000 pounds of fentanyl precursor chemicals from June to the end of August.
The latest data from CBP indicates a substantial increase in fentanyl seizures. As of August 2023, CBP has seized over 25,500 pounds of fentanyl, marking a significant rise compared to the same period in Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 when the total was 12,800 pounds. This increase represents an 800% uptick in fentanyl seizures since FY 2019, and the numbers for FY 2023 have already surpassed those for FY 2022.
In addition to fentanyl, CBP has also reported a 6% increase in seizures of other dangerous drugs including cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and marijuana in August compared to July. Methamphetamine seizures saw a 78% rise, while heroin seizures increased by 39%.
Miller acknowledged the dedication and hard work of CBP staff in protecting the nation and providing humanitarian care for vulnerable individuals. He stated, "The men and women of CBP continue to work, day in and day out, to protect our nation, disrupting the entry of dangerous people and dangerous goods into the country while providing humanitarian care for vulnerable individuals."
CBP remains committed to its mission of safeguarding the border and disrupting the activities of criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking and illegal migration.
