DEA Seizes Record Meth Shipment in Atlanta

Federal agents have seized over 2,300 pounds of methamphetamine hidden in a shipment of celery at the Atlanta State Farmers Market, marking it as the largest meth bust in the DEA's Atlanta Division and the third-largest nationwide this year. The operation involved tracking a semi-trailer that crossed the border from Mexico, revealing a sophisticated smuggling tactic where drugs were concealed within agricultural products. DEA Special Agent Robert Murphy highlighted the cartel's confidence in executing such a large shipment, estimating its wholesale value at over $3 million. A suspect, identified as a Mexican national, has been arrested, and the DEA is investigating which cartel is responsible for the shipment. Agriculture officials noted the increasing trend of drug traffickers using produce to mask illegal substances, raising concerns about the safety and integrity of the agriculture sector. Previous incidents have shown similar methods, underscoring the ongoing challenge of drug trafficking in the region.