CINCINNATI—From Monday, October 6, to Thursday, October 9, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Cincinnati seized 11 shipments containing a total of 30 pounds of smuggled ketamine. The shipments were destined to private residences in Arizona, Colorado, New York, Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas.
During routine inspections of Nigerian and Columbian freight, officers decided to take a closer look at 11 suspicious shipments of personal care products. After testing bottles of bath scrubs, water, and various facial products with a handheld elemental isotope analysis tool, officers discovered liquid ketamine in all of the products. The cumulative value of the ketamine was about $215,000.
Like many anesthetics ketamine has legitimate medical uses, but it is often misused for its hallucinogenic and sedating effects. Ketamine abuse typically occurs at raves and nightclubs and is commonly used to facilitate sexual assault crimes. It is a Schedule III non-narcotic drug regulated under the Controlled Substances Act.
“Our highly experienced officers continue their mission to protect American citizens,” said Cincinnati Port Director Richard Gillespie. “We are committed to stopping the flow of illegal and dangerous drugs that are used to prey in innocent civilians.”
CBP conducts operations at ports of entry throughout the United States, and regularly screens arriving international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted or prohibited products. CBP strives to serve as the premier law enforcement agency enhancing the Nation’s safety, security, and prosperity through collaboration, innovation, and integration.