U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced its ongoing support for the launch of Operation FREE 3.0, an initiative aimed at enhancing fentanyl awareness, reduction, enforcement, and eradication. The operation has been a collaborative effort involving more than 175 federal, state, and local agencies across 14 states. It is designed to combat the trafficking of fentanyl and other synthetic narcotics.
Acting Commissioner Pete R. Flores stated, "CBP remains steadfast in our mission to protect the American people from the threat posed by fentanyl and other synthetic narcotics. Operation FREE 3.0 exemplifies CBP’s holistic, intelligence-driven, and community-focused strategy to confront the synthetic drug epidemic head-on."
Operation FREE initially began in Virginia and has evolved into a significant partnership to dismantle fentanyl trafficking networks and increase public awareness. The current iteration will use CBP's expertise in intelligence and investigation to support efforts in targeting criminal networks.
"Every pound of fentanyl seized is potentially thousands of lives saved. We recognize the magnitude of this crisis, and our dedicated officers and agents, alongside our law enforcement partners, are fully committed to winning this battle," said Flores.
CBP, known as the largest law enforcement organization in the U.S. and the world's first unified border management agency, plays a crucial role in protecting America through collaboration and innovative strategies. More than 65,000 personnel work to ensure the security and prosperity of the nation by facilitating lawful travel and trade.
