ATLANTA, GA – In a groundbreaking operation, the DEA’s Atlanta office has intercepted its largest-ever shipment of methamphetamine, marking a significant victory in the fight against drug trafficking. The operation culminated in the seizure of a staggering 2,300 pounds of meth, cleverly hidden among a shipment of celery, at the Atlanta farmers market in Clayton County.
Acting on a tip-off, federal agents tracked the shipment from the Mexican border to its final destination. The meth, valued at approximately $3 million, was discovered concealed within the produce, leading to the immediate arrest of the truck driver, who now faces serious drug trafficking charges.
“We’re making it abundantly clear: using agriculture as a front for criminal activity will not be tolerated,” a DEA official declared. “Those who attempt to exploit our food systems for illegal purposes will be apprehended and prosecuted.”
To ensure public safety, authorities confirmed that all contaminated celery was destroyed, preventing any potential health risks. “We took swift action to ensure that none of the affected produce reached consumer markets,” officials stated.
This operation highlights a growing trend where drug traffickers exploit agricultural channels to smuggle narcotics. The DEA is intensifying its efforts to combat this method, aiming to thwart such schemes before they can impact communities.
More information on the operation and the increasing use of farmers markets by drug traffickers will be shared in subsequent reports.