Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection
On April 12, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in Chicago seized three shipments containing Xylazine, a dangerous Veterinary sedative increasingly found mixed with opioids. The packages, arriving from China and headed to homes in Cleveland and Philadelphia, were flagged for containing unidentified powders. Using advanced detection tools, officers identified the substance as Xylazine, also known as “tranq.” Although intended for use in large animals, Xylazine poses serious risks to humans, especially when combined with drugs like fentanyl and heroin.
Overdoses involving Xylazine are particularly deadly, as it is not an opioid and does not respond to Narcan, with no known antidote available. CBP emphasized the importance of their vigilance in intercepting such substances before they reach communities. LaFonda Sutton-Burke, Director of Field Operations in Chicago, praised the officers’ dedication. CBP continues to combat evolving threats at 328 U.S. ports of entry, ensuring border security and public safety.