U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers are currently on the lookout for a suspected drug smuggler after nearly $1 million worth of ketamine was uncovered at Washington Dulles International Airport.
The authorities found approximately 34 pounds of ketamine hydrochloride—an animal tranquilizer often misused by individuals—inside a hurriedly packed suitcase from Amsterdam.
As it turns out, the suitcase’s owner wasn’t at the airport when the drugs were seized, so they remain unidentified and at large.
This significant stash is valued at around $900,000, based on estimates of its street value. Ketamine is known for its dissociative anesthetic properties and can induce hallucinogenic experiences.
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CBP’s agriculture specialists detected unusual patterns using X-ray technology, leading to the discovery of the drugs.
“Transnational criminal organizations are persistent in trying to smuggle dangerous substances into the U.S.,” noted Marc Calixte, the Area Port Director. “CBP agents are dedicated to intercepting these harmful shipments to keep our communities safe.”
On average, CBP confiscates about 2,339 pounds of drugs daily across various entry points, including significant quantities of fentanyl.
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Ketamine, which is often called Special K on the street, has legitimate uses in both human and veterinary medicine for sedation, pain relief, and immobilization. It is also gaining attention for its application in treating mental health conditions.
Despite its medical uses, ketamine is frequently abused for its dissociative effects. Additionally, it is known to be associated with sexual assault incidents, and overdoses can lead to severe health issues such as nausea, irregular heart rhythms, and even respiratory failure.
This isn’t the first major seizure of ketamine this year. In July, CBP agents tracked down over 12 pounds from a 43-year-old man arriving from Amsterdam, who was arrested and later found attempting to board another flight with more than half a pound of ketamine.
Furthermore, in recent months, significant quantities of ketamine have been intercepted at various airports, totaling over 6,000 pounds in the fiscal year 2023-2024 alone, from October to July.