INDIANAPOLIS— On September 29, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Indianapolis seized two shipments containing a total of 26 pounds of smuggled ketamine. Both shipments were arriving from the United Kingdom and were heading to residences in New York.
The first shipment contained empty wine boxes, but during an x-ray officers noticed an anomaly. Underneath the padding at the bottom of the boxes was 15 pounds of ketamine. The second shipment was labeled that it contained jeans, jackets, shirts, trousers & a summer coat. When it was x-rayed, officers noticed that it contained a large locked safe. Officers opened the safe and noticed the sides were lined with metal plating pieces sealed at seams with caulk. Officers removed the pieces and revealed 11 pounds of ketamine. In total these drugs had a street value of more than $180,000.
“The work of our officers has been incredible and their dedication to CBP’s enforcement mission is evident when you look at these narcotics seizures,” said LaFonda Sutton-Burke, Director, Field Operation-Chicago. “Drug traffickers are persistent in their attempts to smuggle hard narcotics into the United States, however, through our hard work and vigilance we will continue to intercept these dangerous drugs at our port of entry before they can harm our communities.”
Like many anesthetics ketamine has legitimate medical uses, but it is often misused for its hallucinogenic and sedating effects. Ketamine abuse typically occurs at raves and nightclubs and is commonly used to facilitate sexual assault crimes. It is a Schedule III non-narcotic drug regulated under the Controlled Substances Act.
“Our highly experienced officers continue their mission to protect American citizens,” said James Moore, Port Director-Indianapolis. “We are committed to stopping the flow of illegal and dangerous drugs that are used to prey in innocent civilians.”
CBP conducts operations at ports of entry throughout the United States, and regularly screens arriving international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted or prohibited products. CBP strives to serve as the premier law enforcement agency enhancing the Nation’s safety, security, and prosperity through collaboration, innovation, and integration.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation’s borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with securing the borders of the United States while enforcing hundreds of laws and facilitating lawful trade and travel.