Overview

• Sixteen suspects, including alleged Sinaloa Cartel leader Heriberto Salazar Amaya, were arrested during raids across New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, and Utah.
• Authorities confiscated over 400 kilograms of fentanyl pills, 11.5 kilograms of fentanyl powder, and substantial quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin.
• The operation also resulted in the seizure of $5 million in cash and 49 firearms, highlighting the scale of cartel-linked drug trafficking networks.
• The DOJ called the operation the most significant victory to date against fentanyl trafficking, with all suspects facing prosecution in the US.
• Discussions continue over using Alcatraz Island for high-risk detainees, though critics question its capacity and cost-effectiveness.