Statement by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Historic Actions Against Global Illicit Fentanyl Network

Today, the United States is taking significant and historic actions to disrupt the trafficking of synthetic drugs, representing a major contribution to a government-wide effort to save lives and pursue justice and accountability. Earlier today, the Department of Justice announced criminal charges against over two dozen defendants for their alleged involvement in or support to the production and proliferation of illicit fentanyl worldwide. This law enforcement action is the result of extraordinary work by the Department of Justice, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, to dismantle a global network of individuals engaged in the illicit fentanyl drug trade. This is one of the most significant grouping of fentanyl-focused criminal charges ever brought.

Additionally, the Department of the Treasury announced complementary sanctions against two companies and five individuals linked to the global proliferation of precursor chemicals for the synthesis of illicit fentanyl. The Department of State also announced the submission of over two dozen individuals to its Narcotics Rewards Program, which offers rewards for information leading to the arrest or conviction of narcotics traffickers operating primarily outside the U.S. in major violation of our narcotics laws.

These actions represent yet another step in our efforts to counter fentanyl trafficking worldwide and work with Mexico and other key partners to combat the devastating threat this activity poses. We remain steadfast in our belief that the global illicit drug trade is a threat to our public health and safety, national security, and economy. We also remain steadfast in our commitment to hold accountable those supporting this deadly enterprise. We commend the Department of Justice, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of the Treasury, and the Department of State for their unrelenting pursuit of justice and accountability and their unwavering commitment to keeping Americans safe.

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