More than 160 pounds of ketamine seized at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta airport, officials say

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers were able to stop alleged smugglers from bringing in a massive amount of illegal substances through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport earlier this month.

On Oct. 11, officers found five large plastic bags containing crystal-like substances in the luggage of Daijanae Mitchell, a U.S. citizen who had arrived on a flight from Paris, France. The next day, they came across seven large plastic bags with a similar substance in the luggage of Ryan Mamboula Bokomba, a British citizen who also arrived from Paris.

CBP said officers used “a handheld elemental isotope analysis tool” to determine that the substance was ketamine hydrochloride.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), ketamine hydrochloride is listed as a Schedule III non-narcotic compound used in illegal street drugs such as “Special K,” “Donkey Dust” and “Cat Killer.” However, it is legally used in medicines for humans and animals for induced sedation, immobility, and pain relief.

The combined total of 160.9 pounds of ketamine was turned over to local law enforcement, according to CBP. The Clayton County Sheriff’s Office is handling Mitchell’s case, while Atlanta police are investigating Bokomba.

“Every pound of ketamine we intercept represents lives potentially saved from the devastating effects of this dangerous drug,” Area Port Director for CBP Atlanta Zachary Thomas said. “Our officers work tirelessly to prevent harmful substances like this from entering our communities, and this seizure underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting public health and safety.”

This is a developing story. Return to Atlanta News First for updates.