Governor Katie Hobbs provided an update on Friday on the efforts of a task force created earlier this year to combat cartel violence in Arizona.
The governor was in the southern Arizona city of Sierra Vista on Friday to deliver information on “Operation Desert Guard,” a joint task force established by an executive order she signed in February. The new security plan aims to combat criminal activities along Arizona’s 370-mile border with Mexico, including illegal drug smuggling and human trafficking.
Hobbs claims that since the operation began just over six months ago, 76,000 fentanyl pills and 400 pounds of meth have been seized, and that law enforcement has arrested over 600 people, including 10 fugitives. Overall, the governor claims the operation was responsible for removing 971 pounds of drugs off Arizona streets, with a street value of more than $77 million.
Since March 1, she claims approximately 1,000 illicit guns have been seized.
She was joined by Brigadier General John Conley, Arizona’s Adjutant General (TAG) and Director of the Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs (DEMA). DEMA Emergency Management Director Gabe Lavine, Arizona Department of Homeland Security Director Kim O’Connor, Cochise County Attorney Lori Zucco, and border county sheriffs were also in attendance.