Defending the mail from opioids

USPS
Defending

the mail from illegal drugs

The Postal Inspection Service is committed to using the most advanced technology to stop fentanyl traffickers. Postal inspectors use data, forensics and citizens’ tips to protect Americans and apprehend opioid dealers who send illegal drugs through the mail.

* | Tags: Inspection service USPS Fact #684 | July 2, 2025

Defending the mail from illegal drugs

The Postal Inspection Service is committed to using the most advanced technology to stop fentanyl traffickers. Postal inspectors use data, forensics and citizens’ tips to protect Americans and apprehend opioid dealers who send illegal drugs through the mail.

In 2024, postal inspectors seized 36,454 kilograms of illegal narcotics and confiscated over $13 million in illicit proceeds.

  • Between Oct. 1, 2018, and Sept. 30, 2024, the Inspection Service made 6,215 synthetic opioids seizures.
  • Between fiscal years 2019 and 2024, the Inspection Service seized 12,607 pounds of synthetic opioids.
  • In fiscal year 2024, the Inspection Service made 1,684 synthetic opioid seizures totaling 3,844 pounds.