Two California women were arrested in Colorado after a traffic stop led to the discovery of an alleged $750,000 worth of fentanyl powder. Authorities say the bust, which occurred on Interstate 70, is part of an ongoing effort to crack down on drug trafficking in the region.
Routine Traffic Stop Uncovers Major Drug Haul
A deputy with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office pulled over a vehicle on Interstate 70 on Monday after noticing it was failing to maintain its lane. Initially a routine stop, the situation quickly escalated when the deputy discovered the car had been rented out of state earlier that day.
Authorities said the driver granted permission for a search, leading to the discovery of six vacuum-sealed packages of suspected fentanyl powder. A field test confirmed the substance, according to the sheriff’s office.
$750,000 Worth of Fentanyl Seized
Law enforcement officials said the packages contained around 13 pounds of fentanyl, an opioid known for its potency and deadly risks. Based on street value estimates, the seized drugs were worth approximately three-quarters of a million dollars.
- The seizure comes amid growing concerns about fentanyl overdoses nationwide.
- Officials say the quantity of fentanyl recovered could have potentially resulted in tens of thousands of lethal doses.
- Interstate 70 has become a known corridor for drug trafficking, with multiple high-profile busts in recent years.
Suspects Identified, Facing Serious Charges
The two women arrested in connection with the drug bust have been identified as 26-year-old Lucina Lopez and 24-year-old Vida Arellano, both from Apple Valley, California. They are facing felony charges for possession and importation of a controlled substance.
Lopez remains in custody at the Mesa County Jail with a bond set at $100,000. Arellano, who was still awaiting arraignment as of Tuesday, had not yet received a bond amount.
A Pattern of Fentanyl Trafficking Cases
Authorities say this arrest is part of a troubling trend in fentanyl trafficking. Recent law enforcement data has shown a sharp increase in fentanyl-related arrests across the U.S. The synthetic opioid, which is 50 times stronger than heroin, has been a major factor in the ongoing drug crisis.
| Year | Fentanyl Seizures (lbs) | Arrests Related to Fentanyl |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 12,000 | 18,600 |
| 2023 | 15,300 | 21,400 |
| 2024 | 17,500 | 24,900 |
Officials warn that even a small amount of fentanyl can be deadly. With drug enforcement agencies intensifying their focus on fentanyl smuggling, cases like this highlight the growing challenge in preventing its spread.
Authorities Urge Public to Stay Vigilant
Local law enforcement has reiterated the dangers of fentanyl and urged the public to report any suspicious activity. “These kinds of seizures are critical in keeping our communities safe,” a sheriff’s office spokesperson said.
The case remains under investigation, and authorities have not ruled out further arrests related to the trafficking operation. More details are expected to emerge as the case proceeds through the legal system.
