MASSIVE CALIFORNIA DRUG BUST: MORE THAN 2,100 POUNDS OF METH SEIZED
Sep 20, 2026
U.S. authorities have announced a major drug crackdown in California's Central Valley, dismantling two large-scale clandestine methamphetamine conversion laboratories and seizing more than 2,100 pounds of crystal methamphetamine.
The investigation, known as Operation Klean Strip, targeted operations in Bakersfield and Visalia. Authorities said the investigation began in November 2025 and culminated on September 17 with nine arrests and 16 search warrants.
Along with approximately 2,171 pounds of crystal meth, investigators seized hundreds of gallons of methamphetamine in solution. The final raids also recovered around 4,000 marijuana plants, 20 firearms and $20,000 in suspected drug proceeds.
Federal prosecutors say the laboratories were high-volume operations capable of supplying large quantities of methamphetamine throughout the region.
The operation involved multiple federal and local agencies and represents another major strike against large-scale synthetic-drug production in California.
Several suspects now face federal charges. As with all criminal cases, the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The investigation, known as Operation Klean Strip, targeted operations in Bakersfield and Visalia. Authorities said the investigation began in November 2025 and culminated on September 17 with nine arrests and 16 search warrants.
Along with approximately 2,171 pounds of crystal meth, investigators seized hundreds of gallons of methamphetamine in solution. The final raids also recovered around 4,000 marijuana plants, 20 firearms and $20,000 in suspected drug proceeds.
Federal prosecutors say the laboratories were high-volume operations capable of supplying large quantities of methamphetamine throughout the region.
The operation involved multiple federal and local agencies and represents another major strike against large-scale synthetic-drug production in California.
Several suspects now face federal charges. As with all criminal cases, the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.