Federal Agents Seize 18 Pounds of Deadly Horse Tranquilizer in Chicago
CHICAGO — In a recent operation, federal agents in Chicago intercepted a shipment from China containing 18 pounds of a deadly horse tranquilizer that was suspected to be intended for use in street drugs. The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents at the cargo center conducted thorough inspections on April 12 using specialized tools to identify the chemical composition of the substances. The tests confirmed the presence of Xylazine, a potent sedative commonly used by veterinarians on large animals, including horses.
Upon arrival in Chicago, the bags of tranquilizer were destined for three separate residences: one in Cleveland and two in Philadelphia, according to CBP officials. It has been reported that illicit drug distributors have been incorporating Xylazine, also known as “tranq,” into heroin products. Unlike fentanyl, another dangerous opioid often mixed with heroin, Xylazine does not have a known antidote to reverse overdoses.
LaFonda Sutton-Burke, the Director of Field Operations at the Chicago field office, commended the efforts of the CBP officers in intercepting these harmful substances. She stated, “Drug traffickers are persistent in their attempts to smuggle sedatives such as xylazine into the United States, however, through our hard work and vigilance we will continue to intercept these dangerous substances at our port of entry before they can harm our communities.”
Despite the significant seizure, no arrests have been made in connection with this case. The ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies are crucial in preventing the distribution of dangerous drugs in communities across the country.
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