DEA's Largest Fentanyl Bust Hits Sinaloa Cartel

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the largest fentanyl bust in DEA history, resulting from a six-month investigation that dismantled a major Sinaloa Cartel drug trafficking network spanning Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, and Oregon. Authorities seized about 11.5 kilograms of fentanyl, including three million fentanyl-laced pills, $5 million in cash, 49 firearms, luxury vehicles, and significant quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine. Sixteen individuals were arrested, including alleged ringleader Heriberto (or Alberto) Salazar Amaya, with six suspects identified as being in the country illegally; those arrested will serve their sentences in the U.S. rather than being deported. Officials labeled the Sinaloa Cartel as both a drug and foreign terrorist organization, emphasizing the operation's lifesaving impact, as the seized fentanyl was enough to kill millions. The bust is considered a major blow to the cartel and a victory in the fight against the fentanyl crisis. Authorities indicated that additional arrests and seizures are anticipated as the investigation continues.