Tracing Cryptocurrency: San Diego's Battle Against Fentanyl

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is intensifying its efforts to combat the entry of fentanyl and its precursor chemicals into the United States by tracing cryptocurrency transactions used by Mexican cartels. DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas stated that the agency aims to hold individuals accountable, seize their assets, and disrupt their financial flow. The U.S. government faces challenges in stopping fentanyl production as the necessary chemicals are primarily produced in China and shipped to Mexico, where cartels manufacture the drug for distribution across the U.S. border. Negotiations are underway with China to address the production of fentanyl precursors. DHS has also increased pressure on Mexico to curb fentanyl manufacturing and distribution. The next phase of the strategy involves targeting high-ranking cartel members involved in fentanyl trafficking by bolstering manpower and utilizing forensic accounting to trace cryptocurrency used for purchasing precursor chemicals. Customs and Border Protection is also enhancing its ability to track pill presses, which are used to produce counterfeit fentanyl pills. However, families affected by fentanyl overdoses argue that more needs to be done to address the crisis.