The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) revealed that federal agents discovered over 2,300 pounds (1,043 kilograms) of methamphetamine hidden in celery inside a truck at a farm market on the outskirts of Atlanta, Georgia. Officials stated that this seizure marks the largest operation in the history of the agency.
According to Fox Atlanta, the DEA described this as the largest seizure in similar cases, with agents confiscating the drugs destined for the Atlanta State Farmers Market.
DEA Special Agent Robert Murphy stated that they received intelligence about a suspicious semi-truck crossing the border from Mexico, leading agents to track the drugs all the way to the farm market. The illicit substances were found inside the truck, which was intended to deliver the drugs to the Atlanta State Farmers Market.
“These drugs were disguised within a load of celery,” Murphy said. “It was concealed in the celery. Clearly, our celery didn’t make it to the store. The drugs didn’t make it either.”
The wholesale value of the drugs is estimated at $3 million, but Murphy mentioned that the street value would be significantly higher.
“Most of these seizures usually occur at the border or entry points, and we (Georgia) are a few states away from the border,” Murphy added.
“This is the largest methamphetamine seizure by the Atlanta DEA, and the third-largest methamphetamine seizure by the DEA overall,” he highlighted.
One Mexican citizen has been arrested, though detailed information regarding the suspect and charges has not been immediately disclosed.
Authorities mentioned that using agricultural products to conceal drugs has become a common tactic among smugglers.
Tyler Harper, the commissioner of the Georgia Department of Agriculture, stated, “This is a hub for US agricultural products, so if drugs come through, there is a possibility of contamination. We understand this, which is why protecting consumer safety is crucial.”