Mexico has recently made its largest-ever seizure of the synthetic opioid fentanyl, highlighting the mounting pressure to curb drug trafficking into the United States.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Omar Garcia Harfuch, Mexico’s secretary of security and citizen protection, revealed that the record-breaking seizure took place in the coastal state of Sinaloa through “two separate actions.”
Garcia Harfuch stated, “In Sinaloa, the largest historical seizure of fentanyl was accomplished,” adding that they intercepted “more than a tonne of fentanyl pills.” Additionally, two individuals were arrested and firearms were confiscated as part of the operation. He emphasized that these efforts will continue until the violence in Sinaloa decreases.
Furthermore, the Mexican government disclosed that over 5,200 migrants and asylum seekers were apprehended the day before as they were making their way towards the US border.
Both initiatives are likely aimed at appeasing the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump in the US, who has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada unless steps are taken to combat drug trafficking and immigration across the borders.
Security analyst David Saucedo, speaking to The Associated Press (AP), suggested that Mexico’s actions on Wednesday are influenced by pressure from Washington. Saucedo remarked, “It is evident that the Mexican government has been orchestrating the timing of fentanyl seizures. However, under the pressure from Donald Trump, President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration seems willing to ramp up the arrest of drug traffickers and drug seizures demanded by Washington.”
President Sheinbaum framed the fentanyl seizure as a result of a lengthy investigation, stating, “This is an investigation that had been ongoing for some time, and yesterday, it came to fruition.” She clarified that she aims not to close borders but to build bridges, although her government will prevent migrant caravans from reaching the border.
Fentanyl, known for causing overdose deaths in the US, is described by the US Drug Enforcement Administration as “100 times more potent” than morphine. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), deaths linked to synthetic opioids increased over 55% from 2020 to 2021.
Data from Mexico’s government reflected a drop in fentanyl seizures leading up to Wednesday’s announcement. During the first half of 2024, federal law enforcement in Mexico seized 130 kilograms, down 94% from the previous year.
Experts highlight the need to address the root causes of the fentanyl trade to effectively curb trafficking. Saucedo emphasized that dismantling the labs producing fentanyl is crucial in preventing continued production.
