The FBI announced Wednesday that authorities arrested 55 individuals in a sweeping takedown of a Georgia-based drug trafficking network accused of distributing dangerous narcotics, including deadly fentanyl, across the United States.
Officials said the organization is tied to a supplier in Communist China.
The group was responsible for moving large quantities of deadly drugs throughout Georgia and beyond.
The law enforcement operation was dubbed Operation Powder Island.
Investigators also identified at least one suspect allegedly communicating directly with an overseas Chinese supplier.
The discovery underscores the international scope of modern trafficking networks.
The arrests come as federal authorities intensify efforts to curb the flow of fentanyl.
The dangerous synthetic opioid is driving a nationwide overdose crisis.
According to officials, FBI Atlanta, assisted by FBI Jacksonville, FBI Charlotte, FBI Dallas, and FBI Buffalo, executed 56 federal arrest warrants tied to narcotics and firearms charges.
Authorities took 54 suspects into custody across multiple jurisdictions.
Meanwhile, one additional suspect is expected to surrender next week.
Another is anticipated to be arrested upon returning from work-related travel.
Law enforcement seized one firearm during the operation.
No search warrants were executed, and SWAT teams from FBI Atlanta and FBI Jacksonville provided tactical support.
In a statement, FBI Director Kash Patel credited the crackdown to intensified enforcement efforts under President Donald Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi.
“Under President Trump’s leadership with Attorney General Bondi, this FBI has initiated an aggressive, nationwide takedown of drug trafficking organizations at levels never seen, taking over 30% more deadly narcotics off the streets in 2025 than the year prior,” Patel said.
“Today’s arrest of 55 individuals is the latest in our work to crush the drug trafficking industry that preys on so many Americans, eliminating not just the traffickers themselves but also the funding and supply networks that make the criminal activity possible.”
Patel praised the FBI’s Atlanta field office for doing “outstanding work” alongside local law enforcement partners.
The FBI chief vowed that the bureau would continue its crackdown on drug trafficking at the same pace.
“24/7, full throttle mission to save lives and take these narcotics off the street each and every day,” Patel declared.
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