The dangers of fentanyl, one of the most powerful opioid drugs in the world, have recently escalated in the United States. This drug, directly connected to over two-thirds of the record 106,699 drug overdose deaths in the nation in 2021, has surged in recent years with a myriad of methods for its illegal smuggling.
Fortunately, U.S. Border Patrol agents remain dedicated to the fight against fentanyl, a commitment which was recently demonstrated with their seizure of a massive amount of fentanyl in San Clemente, California.
On Monday, over 232 pounds of fentanyl, enough to kill 50 million people, was seized by the U.S. Border Patrol. Its street value was estimated to be about $3 million and represents the third major fentanyl bust this month by Border Patrol, an agency under the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, outside of ports of entry.
Recently, the seizures of fentanyl by this agency have seen a dramatic increase from 4,800 pounds in 2020 to 14,700 pounds in the following year. Already in the first four months of this fiscal year, 12,500 pounds have been confiscated.
Fentanyl, sometimes referred to as Apace, China Girl, China Town, China White, Dance Fever, Goodfellas, Great Bear, He-Man, Poison, and Tango & Cash on the streets, is usually imported from China.
Although the U.S. Border Patrol is making a commendable effort, the influx of fentanyl into the United States still continues. To have the best chance in this fight, the federal government must collaborate with other countries to cut down on smuggling and invest in educational and preventative programs.
Only with these measures will the scourge of fentanyl be truly reduced and all Americans can live safer, cleaner lives.