Phoenix police seize 2 million fentanyl pills, dangerous drugs in ‘Operation Night Owl’

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — A sting has come to an end nearly a year later, resulting in hundreds of pounds of dangerous drugs off Valley streets.

Phoenix police and federal law enforcement launched a criminal drug and money laundering investigation known as Operation Night Owl. Phoenix detectives and Drug Enforcement AdministrationDEA) agents targeted drug trafficking activities of international and U.S. suppliers and distributors.

Phoenix police and the DEA seized 2 million fentanyl pills, 46.3 pounds of fentanyl powder, 18.7 pounds of cocaine, 133 pounds of methamphetamine and 12.6 pounds of heroin. In addition, $75,000 in U.S. currency, 12 vehicles and 15 firearms were also found in the sting.

Investigators worked with the Maricopa County Attorney's Office to target members of several drug trafficking organizations in both Arizona and Mexico. Authorities conducted nearly 3,000 hours of surveillance and requested over 200 court orders and search warrants for the wanted suspects.

In all, authorities arrested 17 people in connection to the bust.

Phoenix police also worked with law enforcement in California, Colorado, Utah and Nevada.