June 25, 2023 - San Diego Police Department officials report that 38 pounds of methamphetamine and 41,000 counterfeit fentanyl pills are off the streets and two men are in custody after a successful operation between the DEA Narcotics Task Force and the San Diego Police Department. In April of this year, investigators developed information about the transportation of dangerous drugs.

An operation in May led to the recovery of 9 pounds of methamphetamine.

In June, an operation led to the recovery of 10,000 counterfeit fentanyl pills.

A second operation in June led to the seizure of 29 pounds of methamphetamine, 31,000 counterfeit fentanyl pills, and 600 tabs of MDMA/ecstasy.

28-year-old Luis Solorzano-Bautista and 23-year-old Brandon Diaz were arrested.

“There is no doubt these drug seizures saved our neighborhoods from overdoses and death.” said San Diego Police Chief David Nisleit. “These types of operations would not be possible without our partners on the DEA Narcotics Task Force.”

“We appreciate the hard work and dedication of our agents and partners on the Narcotics Task Force,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Shelly Howe. “The partnerships between our agencies are critical to the success of removing drugs from the streets and holding those who sell the drugs accountable.”

“Counterfeit fentanyl pills” is a term used to describe pills made by an unknown, illicit manufacturer. These pills often contain fentanyl and other harmful drugs. You can learn more about them here: https://www.dea.gov/onepill.

Source & photos: San Diego Police Department