DEA: Smugglers Implanted Drugs In Puppies
Two Arrests In Miami
POSTED: 5:20 pm EST February 1, 2006
UPDATED: 5:25 pm EST February 1, 2006
MIAMI -- The Drug Enforcement Administration announced the arrests Wednesday of 22 Colombian nationals, two in Miami, who used "outrageous methods" of smuggling, including surgically implanted packets of heroin in purebred puppies.
Investigators said in one instance, six puppies were found impregnated with a total of three kilograms of liquid heroin packets. Human couriers, called "swallowers," also ingested the heroin packets for transporting.
Agents said in addition, the heroin was concealed in body creams; aerosol cans; pressed into bead shapes; and sewn into the lining of purses and double-sided luggage.
"The organization's outrageous and heinous smuggling method of implanting heroin inside puppies is a true indication of the extent that drug dealers go to make their profit," said Special Agent in Charge John Gilbride. "This investigation identified the individuals who were responsible for overseeing and smuggling millions of dollars worth of heroin from Colombia to the East Coast."
To date, the DEA said there have been 14 separate seizures of heroin following the two-year multi-agency investigation.
Investigators said the distribution area of the Colombia-based network reached from Miami to New York City.
The operation culminated Wednesday in an international roundup that included 18 search warrants in six different Colombian cities.
Two Arrests In Miami
POSTED: 5:20 pm EST February 1, 2006
UPDATED: 5:25 pm EST February 1, 2006
MIAMI -- The Drug Enforcement Administration announced the arrests Wednesday of 22 Colombian nationals, two in Miami, who used "outrageous methods" of smuggling, including surgically implanted packets of heroin in purebred puppies.
Investigators said in one instance, six puppies were found impregnated with a total of three kilograms of liquid heroin packets. Human couriers, called "swallowers," also ingested the heroin packets for transporting.
Agents said in addition, the heroin was concealed in body creams; aerosol cans; pressed into bead shapes; and sewn into the lining of purses and double-sided luggage.
"The organization's outrageous and heinous smuggling method of implanting heroin inside puppies is a true indication of the extent that drug dealers go to make their profit," said Special Agent in Charge John Gilbride. "This investigation identified the individuals who were responsible for overseeing and smuggling millions of dollars worth of heroin from Colombia to the East Coast."
To date, the DEA said there have been 14 separate seizures of heroin following the two-year multi-agency investigation.
Investigators said the distribution area of the Colombia-based network reached from Miami to New York City.
The operation culminated Wednesday in an international roundup that included 18 search warrants in six different Colombian cities.
