DEA Seizes 670,000 Fake Fentanyl Pills in Colorado Springs and New Mexico, Arrest Made

A tip from a concerned citizen led to a significant drug seizure in both New Mexico and Colorado Springs, according to a recent DEA announcement. On Monday, the federal law enforcement agency detailed the case, explaining how a suspicious bus trip prompted a major bust involving over 670,000 fake fentanyl pills.

The incident began when two men traveling by bus from New Mexico to Denver caught the attention of a concerned individual. The men appeared nervous, and one of them fled, leaving behind two large suitcases. Local authorities in Albuquerque were alerted, and the Albuquerque Police Department responded by seizing the abandoned luggage. A search warrant revealed approximately 330,000 counterfeit pills and two ounces of heroin.

Meanwhile, the second man continued his journey toward Denver. Law enforcement in Colorado Springs was notified and quickly detained the individual within city limits. A K9 unit was employed by the Colorado Springs Police Department to search the man’s belongings, uncovering about 340,000 additional fake fentanyl pills, as well as several thousand dollars in cash.

DEA Rocky Mountain Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Pullen praised the public’s role in this operation, saying, “This is a prime example of see something, say something.” As a result, 670,000 fake pills were taken off the streets of Colorado and New Mexico.

The DEA did not release the suspect’s identity, but confirmed that he was a fugitive wanted on drug trafficking warrants in Denver. Michael Allen, the 4th Judicial District Attorney, commended the law enforcement agencies for their collaborative efforts, stressing the ongoing threat of fentanyl in the community.

The total amount of fake pills seized in this operation represents about 25% of all fentanyl pills seized in Colorado throughout 2023. “The number of fentanyl pills seized in this case is almost enough to give every resident in the city of Denver one fake pill,” said Pullen.

Local authorities reiterated the importance of tackling the fentanyl epidemic, which continues to claim lives across the U.S. Police Chief Adrian Vasquez of Colorado Springs emphasized the role of community members in combating the crisis, stating, “Seizures of this size are only possible with the collaborative work with our partner agencies on the DEA Task Force and community members who are courageous enough to do something about it.”

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