PAW PAW, Mich. — The Michigan State Police seized 3 kilograms of fentanyl during a traffic stop on Interstate 94 in Van Buren County on Thursday.
The MSP Fifth District Hometown Security Team made the announcement at midday Friday. Fentanyl is a powerful, synthetic opioid similar to morphine, but 50 to 100 times more potent.
“The amount of fentanyl involved in this case is alarming and not typical of what we see day to day,” said Capt. Michael Brown, commander of MSP’s Fifth District. “A small dose can be deadly. Three kilograms equals out to nearly 3 million doses. Our Hometown Security Team did an excellent job intercepting these drugs.”
During a traffic stop on I-94 in Van Buren County, troopers observed several indicators of criminal activity and were given consent to search the vehicle. The vehicle contained two occupants, a male and female from California. Upon searching the vehicle, troopers found the packaged drugs hidden in the vehicle.
After interviewing the driver and passenger, it was determined that the 23-year-old man driving was responsible for the narcotics. He was arrested and jailed. Charges are pending.
The female passenger provided a statement and was released.
