Thursday, September 17, 2009

News Release - IDAHO STATE POLICE SEIZES LARGE AMOUNT OF AFRICAN DRUG "KHAT" IN BOISE

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IDAHO STATE POLICE NEWS RELEASE
ISP Headquarters
700 S. Stratford
Meridian, ID 83642

Idaho State Police News Release
For Immediate Release - 9/17/09
For Information: Contact: Major Dan Thornton 208-884-7205

IDAHO STATE POLICE SEIZES LARGE AMOUNT OF AFRICAN DRUG KHAT IN MERIDIAN
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On September 15, 2009 detectives of Idaho State Police and US Immigrations and Customs Enforcement participated in the seizure of over $114,000 in KHAT (pronounced "Cot") for traffickers in Meridian.

KHAT is a natural substance with the appearance of small tea or bay leaves. It contains the alkaloid cathinone, an amphetamine-like stimulant which is said to cause excitement, loss of appetite and euphoria. In 1980 the World Health Organization classified KHAT a drug of abuse that can produce mild to moderate psychological dependence and Idaho law classifies cathinone as a Schedule 1 Narcotic. KHAT is either chewed or smoked by users.

Last week, agents of US Customs and Border Protection in San Francisco intercepted a shipment of alleged tea from China that tested to be KHAT. The load of 190 pounds was transferred to ISP in Meridian for investigation. During the investigation suspects were identified and on Tuesday September 15, ISP undercover detectives delivered the KHAT to a residence in Meridian. Following the delivery, a search warrant was served and an additional 169 pounds of KHAT was located and seized, bringing the total to 359 pounds or over 163 kilos worth over $114,000. This is the first ever seizure of KHAT in Idaho.

No arrests have yet been made, although extensive interviews have taken place and suspects have been identified. Our investigation has shown that most of the KHAT seized was destined for other traffickers in Minnesota. ISP will ask the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney's office for criminal charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance, with intent to Delivery be filed on three persons. Once charges are filed, the names of those arrested will be released.

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