News Release [print friendly page]
May 16, 2003

MASSIVE HEROIN-SMUGGLING ORGANIZATION DISMANTLED
Historic Cooperation Between U.S. and China

DEA Acting Administrator William B. Simpkins today applauded Chinese and Hong Kong law enforcement authorities for their unprecedented role in dismantling a massive heroin smuggling organization that targeted the U.S. and Canada. Today's arrests numbered 20.

"In Operation City Lights law enforcement agents from DEA, China and Hong Kong joined together to successfully dismantle the Fujian Province, China-based organization, run by the 'Four Untouchables,'" Simpkins said. "This organization was responsible for smuggling more than $100 million worth of Southeast Asian heroin into the United States over a three year period."

U.S. distribution cells for the "Four Untouchables" were based in New York, North Carolina, and Florida. In a one-year period they sent 8 loads each containing 200-300 units of heroin. "This marks the first coordinated effort between the United States and China to dismantle a narcotics-trafficking organization," Simpkins added.

"The success of this investigation was made possible by real-time sharing of information by the U.S., China and Hong Kong. We have begun an excellent working relationship which we are confident will continue to grow. With the help of the Chinese and Hong Kong authorities, we proved that no one is above the law. Today, the 'Four Untouchables' know that better than anyone else," Simpkins concluded.

If you have questions or need furtherassistance, please contact the DEA Office of Public Affairs in Washington, D.C. at 202-307-7977.