$3M in Mexican Cartel Meth Seized in Record-Breaking Bust
Monumental Methamphetamine Seizure in Clayton County, Georgia
In a record-breaking bust, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seized a literal ton of methamphetamine that was en route to be sold across the southeast. The drugs, intended for delivery to a local farmer’s market, were concealed within bags of celery. Officials stated that this seizure is the largest in the division’s history, recovering over 2000 pounds of meth and stopping millions worth of the drug from reaching US streets.
Details on the Operation
Working off a tip about a suspicious tractor-trailer crossing the Mexican border, DEA agents intercepted the vehicle, scheduled for delivery at the Atlanta State Farmers’ Market. Upon inspection, agents found a massive haul of methamphetamine hidden in the shipment of celery. The produce was discarded, and a Mexican citizen, identified as Jesus Martinez Martinez, was promptly arrested.
Third-Largest Meth Seizure DEA-Wide
Robert Murphy, DEA Special Agent In Charge, said, “This is the largest meth seizure at DEA Atlanta and third-largest total meth seizure DEA-wide.” He further emphasized the significance of the bust given its location several states away from the border. Murphy said, “This cartel was very confident in their operations to send this much at one time.” The wholesale value of the drugs is estimated at $3M, but it could fetch much more on the street.
Rise in Drug Trafficking Via Produce Shipments
Officials noted that the method of smuggling drugs within produce shipments has become prevalent among cartels. The Atlanta State Farmers’ Market, as the primary produce terminal in the US, is thus an a likely target. Tyler Harper, Georgia Department of Agriculture Commissioner, expressed his concern over the potential cross-contamination. He underscored their commitment to keep consumers safe and prevent agriculture from being used as a cover for criminal activities.
Dedication to Eradicating Drug Trafficking
Harper reinstated the agency’s law enforcement division last year in response to the escalating problem. In a strong message to those involved in drug trafficking, he stated, “You will be caught; you will be prosecuted, and you will go to prison.” The drugs seized are currently being tested and are believed to be pure methamphetamine.
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
