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Strategic Drug Threat Developments
- African American traffickers, who are the primary distributors of
cocaine, heroin, and marijuana in the Michigan HIDTA region, are
increasingly smuggling MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, also known
as ecstasy) from Canada. MDMA distribution by African American traffickers
is contributing to increased MDMA availability and abuse among African
Americans in Detroit.
- Albanian criminal groups are emerging as significant traffickers of
Canadian high-potency marijuana and MDMA in the region. However, Asian drug
trafficking organizations (DTOs) have been, and continue to be, the primary
suppliers of these drugs.
- Nigerian traffickers have increased their involvement in heroin
trafficking in Detroit. Previously, Nigerians primarily served as couriers
for other heroin distributors in the region; they now distribute the heroin
that they transport.
- Cocaine seizures are increasing at the international border between
Michigan and Canada. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) reportedly
seized more cocaine entering Canada at the Ambassador Bridge in 2007 (418
kg) than was seized during the previous 6 years combined (233 kg).
Additionally, in February 2008 CBSA conducted the largest land border
cocaine seizure in Canadian history, seizing approximately 237 kilograms at
the Blue Water Bridge.1
- Methamphetamine laboratory incidents2 in the region have declined more
than 73 percent over the past 3 years, from 221 incidents in 2005 to 59
incidents in 2007. This significant reduction can be attributed to statewide
precursor control legislation enacted in December 2005, effective law
enforcement initiatives, and public awareness campaigns. Limited
methamphetamine production continues in the western counties of the Michigan HIDTA, often involving a simplified technique known as the "one-pot cook."
- The production of higher-potency marijuana at indoor grow sites in the
Michigan HIDTA is increasing. The number and average size of indoor
marijuana grows seized in Michigan have increased over the past 2 years; the
number of seized indoor grows has more than doubled, while the average
number of seized plants has increased fourfold. Increases in the number and
size of indoor grows most likely reflect an attempt on the part of domestic
producers to profit from the demand for high-potency marijuana in the HIDTA
region.
End Notes
1.
Blue Water Bridge is located outside the Michigan HIDTA region at the Port
Huron port of entry (POE); however, it is a key cross-border transit point for
illicit drugs that transit the region.
2.
laboratory incidents include seizures of laboratories,
dumpsites, and chemicals and equipment.
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