CBP Intercepts Crystal Meth Ingredients at Parcel Facility

May 04, 2010 - Cincinnati — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Cincinnati DHL facility seized the ingredients used in the manufacturing of crystal methamphetamine over the weekend. The parcel was arriving from Jordan, bound for a location within the United States. The CBP officers became alerted to the shipment when an anomaly was noticed on the X-ray and a strange odor was emitting for the parcel.

Upon examination it was discovered that the parcel contained over 13 pounds of ephedrine and almost three pounds of liquid amphetamine. The ephedrine was rolled into balls which resembled dough and the liquid amphetamine was concealed in shampoo bottles. Both chemicals are used in the production of crystal methamphetamine

“The production of methamphetamine has been made more difficult by federal regulations aimed at controlling the flow of precursor chemicals such as ephedrine,” said David Murphy, CBP director of field operations in Chicago. “Our officers are constantly refining and enhancing their inspectional skills; this discovery of the components of crystal methamphetamine is the result of their dedication to our mission and our commitment to protect our community and the nation.”

Crystal methamphetamine is highly addictive drug and users are quick to develop a tolerance to the amount they are taking. The longer users take methamphetamine, the more they need, even to the point of depriving themselves of basic needs such as food and sleep, in order to keep administering the drug to feed their addiction. Methamphetamine causes increased heart rate and blood pressure and can cause irreversible damage to blood vessels in the brain, producing strokes. Other effects of methamphetamine include respiratory problems, irregular heartbeat, and extreme anorexia. Its use can result in cardiovascular collapse and death.

CBP officers are stationed at express consignment facilities throughout the United States. CBP processes, examines and releases all parcels arriving from a foreign point of origin. All shipments are processed through a radiation portal to ensure that radioactive materials do not enter this country.