Authorities Discover Meth Stash Hidden in Celery

Federal agents in Atlanta made a staggering discovery at a local farmers market—but the story doesn’t end there.

At a Glance

Federal agents found over 2,300 pounds of meth hidden in celery at a farmers market outside Atlanta.
The DEA called it one of the largest seizures of its kind.
Authorities arrested a Mexican citizen connected to the incident.
Using produce to hide drugs is a common smuggling tactic.

Massive Meth Seizure at Atlanta Farmers Market

Federal agents discovered more than 2,300 pounds (1,043 kilograms) of methamphetamines concealed in celery at the Atlanta State Farmers Market in Forest Park. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), this is one of the largest seizures of its type. The drugs were hidden inside a truck loaded with celery, which agents tracked from a semitrailer crossing the Mexican border.

Authorities arrested a Mexican citizen in connection with the seizure. The DEA emphasized that using produce to smuggle drugs is a frequent tactic among drug traffickers, and this seizure highlights the sheer audacity and confidence of those involved. The drugs were en route to be distributed across the Southeast, facilitated by a Mexican cartel.

The DEA and the Preventive Measures

DEA agents had prior intelligence about the truck carrying methamphetamine. The drugs hidden among the celery were reportedly intended to be sold wholesale for an estimated $3 million. Upon discovering the meth, agents discarded the celery to prevent any potential contamination or concerns about food safety.

Celery was used to conceal more than 2,300 pounds of meth that federal agents discovered in a truck at a farmers market outside Atlanta, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration said. https://t.co/ZR70Cx3Rme pic.twitter.com/KVCittB5nO

— CBS News (@CBSNews) August 14, 2024

“This was contained in a cover load of celery,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Murphy. He added that “obviously,” they disposed of the celery.

This isn’t the first time drug smugglers have hidden their contraband in food shipments. Past incidents involve nearly six tons of methamphetamine found in green squash in California and two tons of cocaine concealed among avocados in Colombia. Other reports have cited drugs discovered in shipments of green beans, sugar, flour bags, candy boxes, and even banana shipments.

According to Murphy, “This cartel was very confident in what they’ve been doing to send this much at one time”

Agriculture and Drug Smuggling

The Atlanta State Farmers Market is a critical distribution hub for fresh produce across the Southeast and the country. Georgia’s Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper highlighted the dangers of drug smuggling through produce terminals and the potential for food contamination. Harper warned that those using agriculture as a cover for criminal activities would be caught and prosecuted.

“This is the largest meth seizure at DEA Atlanta and the third-largest total meth seizure DEA wide,” Murphy emphasized.

Such incidents point toward an ongoing struggle between law enforcement and drug cartels who continually seek new ways to transport illegal substances. Special Agent Murphy noted that the DEA remains vigilant and committed to intercepting such shipments before they reach their destinations, safeguarding the community from the ravages of methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs.