DETROIT – The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Detroit Field Division said agents seized about 8.5 million potentially deadly doses of fentanyl and made 176 arrests during a recent enforcement operation.
Agents also seized 142 guns and recovered about $2.6 million in cash and other assets, according to the DEA.
The operation comes ahead of National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, as federal officials continue efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking in Detroit and across the region.
DEA Special Agent in Charge Joseph Dixon said agents are working around the clock to keep fentanyl out of local neighborhoods.
“For anyone out there who’s peddling poison in our communities, we will find you, we will arrest you, we will ensure that you will be brought into a court of justice,” Dixon said.
Dixon said the DEA will continue pursuing people involved in fentanyl trafficking through the criminal justice system.
Federal officials also urged residents to play a role in combating the illegal drug trade.
Officials said one of the best ways residents can help is to report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
“If you see something, say something,” officials said.
The DEA has warned that fentanyl is extremely potent and that illegally manufactured fentanyl can be mixed into other drugs, increasing the risk of a fatal overdose.
The enforcement effort highlights the ongoing federal focus on fentanyl trafficking ahead of National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day.