Governor Gavin Newsom is intensifying efforts to combat fentanyl smuggling in California by doubling the number of National Guard service members deployed across the state and at border entry points. The deployment will increase the number of service members from 155 to nearly 400, a significant boost aimed at curbing the influx of illegal drugs.
Announcing the initiative at a press conference in San Ysidro, Newsom emphasized the critical role of the state’s Counter Drug Taskforce in holding smugglers accountable and removing deadly drugs from the streets. “We are taking decisive action to protect our communities from the scourge of fentanyl. By doubling our National Guard deployment, we aim to disrupt the networks responsible for trafficking these dangerous substances into California,” Newsom stated.
The enhanced deployment comes amid rising concerns about the impact of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, on public health and safety. Fentanyl-related overdoses have surged, prompting state and local authorities to escalate their response efforts. The California National Guard’s increased presence is expected to bolster interdiction efforts at key points of entry and across various smuggling routes.
Governor Newsom’s plan involves coordinated operations between the National Guard, local law enforcement agencies, and federal partners. This collaborative approach is designed to enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering, and direct action against smuggling operations. The goal is to identify and dismantle the criminal networks that facilitate the distribution of fentanyl.
The initiative has received support from various stakeholders, including public health officials and community leaders, who have been vocal about the need for robust measures to address the fentanyl crisis. “This deployment is a crucial step in our ongoing fight against fentanyl,” said California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly. “By targeting the supply chains, we can significantly reduce the availability of this lethal drug and save lives.”
As the enhanced deployment gets underway, Governor Newsom has pledged continued investment in drug prevention and treatment programs. “While we crack down on smuggling, we must also ensure that those affected by addiction have access to the support and resources they need to recover,” Newsom added.
The expanded National Guard presence marks a significant escalation in California’s efforts to combat the fentanyl epidemic. As these service members take up their positions, the state hopes to see a substantial reduction in the flow of illegal drugs and a corresponding improvement in public safety.
