California National Guard Seizes Nearly 4,700 Pounds of Fentanyl in Ongoing Crackdown, Newsom says

In a significant stride against the ongoing fentanyl crisis, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the California National Guard’s Counterdrug Task Force has seized nearly 4,638 pounds of fentanyl powder and over 8.8 million fentanyl-laced pills since January 2024. These seizures, valued at nearly $40 million, are part of California’s intensified efforts to combat the illicit drug trade, particularly along the southern border.

The task force works in collaboration with local and federal partners, focusing on intercepting illegal narcotics at ports of entry. Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of this ongoing operation, stating, “California’s work to address illicit fentanyl entering into our state continues to produce strong results. We’ll continue to address the opioid epidemic by all means necessary – including by getting fentanyl off our streets and providing communities with access to the treatment and life-saving medications they need.”

By embedding members in cross-government initiatives, California is bolstering its efforts to disrupt transnational criminal organizations and curb the flow of illegal narcotics into the state.

The Counterdrug Task Force plays a crucial role in gathering intelligence, supporting criminal investigations, and aiding personnel.Photo byPharmacy ImagesonUnsplash