PHILADELPHIA, PA — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Port of Philadelphia have intercepted nearly 300 pounds of dried opium poppy pods, marking a significant step in efforts to curb illegal drug trafficking. The shipments, which arrived from Spain between May 1 and May 20, had an estimated street value of $30,000.
According to CBP, the seized poppy pods were concealed and labeled as “Decora Craft Balls Ornamental” destined for recipients across 17 states, including Pennsylvania, California, Texas, and New York. The total haul of 123 shipments weighed approximately 295 pounds and 10 ounces and has since been seized for destruction.
“The United States continues to struggle through an illegal opium abuse epidemic that has hurt many families in our communities,” said Cleatus P. Hunt, Jr., CBP’s Area Port Director in Philadelphia. “Intercepting these poppy pods is one way Customs and Border Protection can help combat this very serious opioid public health threat.”
The poppy plant, from which morphine and codeine are derived, is classified as a controlled substance under Schedule II of the federal Controlled Substances Act. Products such as poppy pods, straw, and unprocessed seeds are heavily regulated, and only licensed entities can legally import them for pharmaceutical purposes. However, individuals often seek to illegally import these products to produce “poppy tea,” a narcotic beverage with dangerous and sometimes lethal effects due to its high morphine content.
Public health concerns surrounding the abuse of opium are well-documented. The Drug Enforcement Administration highlights the addictive nature of opium and warns of severe physical and psychological dependence, which can lead to overdose. Some individuals have faced dire consequences for importing and selling opium products. For instance, an Indiana couple received three-year sentences, and a North Carolina man was sentenced to 27 months for illegal importation and distribution.
This is the second major interception of opium poppy pods in the Baltimore Field Office this year. CBP officers previously seized 250 pounds of poppy pods in February at Washington Dulles International Airport. The consistency of these seizures underscores the ongoing challenge of combating illicit opium trafficking.
CBP data reveals the scale of its anti-narcotics efforts. During fiscal year 2023, the agency seized an average of 1,571 pounds of illicit narcotics every day at U.S. borders. The Philadelphia haul represents one piece of this broader mission to prevent harmful substances from entering communities.
“Our officers remain committed to keeping our communities safe by intercepting dangerous drugs and other illicit products at our nation’s borders before they can cause harm,” Hunt added.
CBP continues to inspect international parcels and cargo for compliance with U.S. regulations, emphasizing safety and vigilance in the fight against illegal drug trafficking. The latest seizures illustrate the agency’s dedication to addressing both the public health risks and criminal activities associated with opium abuse.
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