Over 130 pounds of various narcotics and a potent synthetic opioid seized in Queens investigation

Over 130 pounds of narcotics were seized in a Queens-based drug trafficking operation, including one of the largest seizures of a drug 100 times more potent than fentanyl, said the Queens County District Attorney.

Acting District Attorney John Ryan and New York City Police Commissioner James O’Neill announced that 11 people were arrested in connection to a drug dealing operation that spanned from California to New York. Ten were arrested in Queens County and one was arrested in Rockland County.

Law enforcement seized a total of six firearms, 68 pounds of cocaine, 50 pounds of fentanyl, 11 pounds of carfentanil, 8 pounds of heroin, and “various quantities” of ketamine and tramadol, according to a press release.

The seizure of carfentanil, a synthetic opioid approximately 100 times more potent than fentanyl, is the largest seizure of its kind, Ryan said in the release.

“The main defendant in this case operated a complicated illegal network of dealers and traffickers, who pumped deadly drugs which continue to contribute to the opioid epidemic in our communities,” said Ryan.

The investigation was in conjunction with the New York Police Department’s Major Case Squad. According to the charges, the Major Case Squad found the drugs and firearms at a variety of locations throughout the investigation, often in trucks or at stash houses in Queens.

“These arrests and the significant seizure of narcotics exemplify the NYPD’s commitment, with its law enforcement partners, to stopping drug traffickers from disrupting our communities,” said O’Neill.

Some of the charges include operating as a major drug trafficker, criminal possession of a controlled substance and conspiracy. If convicted, those charged could face 20 to 25 years to life, depending on their charges.