Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at Dulles International Airport intercepted a significant shipment of psychoactive substances disguised as beauty products. The two packages, originating from China and addressed to Washington, D.C., contained approximately 70 pounds of N, N-Dimethylpentylone Hydrochloride, a Schedule I controlled substance.

This synthetic drug, categorized as a substituted cathinone, is often sold illicitly in various forms, mimicking substances like ecstasy or molly. First identified in the U.S. in 2021, it poses serious health risks including high blood pressure, rapid heart rate, hypothermia, and even death.

Upon inspection, officers discovered numerous vacuum-sealed bags containing a white crystalline substance. Using a handheld elemental isotope analysis tool, they confirmed the substance's identity as N, N-Dimethylpentylone Hydrochloride. The shipment has been handed over to Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation.

Christine Waugh, acting area port director for CBP’s Area Port of Washington, D.C., highlighted the ongoing efforts to combat the evolving synthetic stimulant market. She emphasized the commitment of CBP officers to detect these dangerous substances and collaborate with partners to hold importers accountable. This seizure underscores the ongoing battle against illicit drug trafficking and the innovative methods employed by criminals.

This incident follows other recent successes by CBP, including the seizure of counterfeit goods and currency at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. CBP officers seize an average of 2,895 pounds of drugs daily across the nation's ports of entry.