Two Million Fentanyl Pills Seized in Phoenix Police Department's Drug Operation in AZ-Mexico

Authorities have busted an international drug trafficking network, leading to the seizure of millions of fentanyl pills, more than 100 pounds of illegal drugs and multiple indictments, Phoenix police announced Thursday.

The nearly year-long drug, money laundering and conspiracy investigation, dubbed Operation Night Owl, yielded 17 charges in the crackdown on Mexico- and Arizona-based suppliers, couriers, secret warehouse operators and distribution coordinators, police said. Phoenix. The investigation has rocked warehouses and distribution centers in the Phoenix area, police said.

Working with the Maricopa County Prosecutor’s Office, investigators targeted the heads of multiple drug trafficking organizations within the state and in Mexico that were responsible for importing bulk fentanyl pills, fentanyl powder, methamphetamines, heroin and cocaine, police said. About 3,000 hours of surveillance were conducted during the investigation, along with more than 200 court orders and search warrants, police added.

In addition to the more than 2 million fentanyl pills seized, Phoenix police said its conspiracy team and the Drug Enforcement Administration also seized other drugs and merchandise.

Also seized during Operation Night Owl:

21 kilograms of fentanyl powder.
8.5 kilograms of cocaine.
133 pounds of methamphetamine.
12.6 pounds of heroin.
Approximately $75,000 in US currency, 12 vehicles and 15 firearms.

Federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies from Arizona, California, Colorado, Utah and Nevada contributed to Operation Night Owl, police said.

“Operation Night Owl underscores our commitment to working together to create a safer community for all,” a Phoenix police statement said.