California governor announces 240% increase in fentanyl seizures by CalGuard

(FOX40.COM) — Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the CalGuard has seen a 240% increase in fentanyl being seized after most of the National Guard was returned to his “control.”
• Video above: How deadly is fentanyl?

Newsom announced that the California National Guard had helped seize 891 pounds of illicit fentanyl in September.

Newsom said in September, the national guard has helped seize 891 pounds of fentanyl, which is a 240% increase since June. The drugs that were seized were worth an estimated $6.5 million.

“The California National Guard isn’t just about defense — it’s about service to Californians. Their work is humanitarian at its core – compassion in uniform,” Newsom said. “Every single person benefits when the Guard is out there — because their service reminds us we’re all connected, and that the strength of this state comes from the goodness of those who give more than they take.”

Newsom mentioned that ever since the National Guard started drug interdiction efforts in 2021, they have helped seize over 34,350 pounds of fentanyl and more than 50.6 million pills containing fentanyl, with a street value of more than $492 million. 

As of November, servicemembers, along with partner agencies, have helped seize 4,460 pounds of fentanyl, which adds up to nearly 2 million pills, worth an estimated value of around $36 million.

Many servicemembers are deployed statewide, including at ports of entry, to combat transnational criminal organizations and seize illegal narcotics. Newsom said in a press release.

For more information about the dangers of Fentanyl, click here.