Massive Drug Bust in Atlanta: Historic Seizure of Fentanyl Unveiled

In a sweeping operation that rocked Atlanta, federal agents seized enough fentanyl to kill nearly 50 million people. The massive drug bust, led by newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel, represents the largest fentanyl seizure in Georgia’s history.

At a glance:

• FBI and DEA executed search warrants at three locations in Atlanta, seizing over 252 kilograms of drugs valued at $9 million
• Bartholomew Keeton Harralson, 47, was arrested and faces at least 40 years to life in prison if convicted
• Agents confiscated 97 kilograms of fentanyl, enough to kill 48 million people
• 33 firearms, counterfeit cash, and drug manufacturing equipment were also seized
• The operation was part of “Operation Take Back America,” targeting cartels and transnational criminal organizations

Record-Breaking Drug Seizure Rocks Georgia

Federal authorities executed coordinated raids across Atlanta, South Fulton, and Douglas County, resulting in the largest fentanyl seizure in Georgia history. The operation led to the arrest of 47-year-old Bartholomew Keeton Harralson and the discovery of a sophisticated drug manufacturing operation.

Law enforcement seized over 252 kilograms of various narcotics including 97 kilograms of fentanyl, with a combined street value exceeding $9 million. The amount of fentanyl alone could potentially kill nearly 48 million people – approximately four times Georgia’s entire population.

FBI Director Celebrates Massive Win Against Drug Traffickers

Newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel personally highlighted the significance of the operation, showing the Trump administration’s renewed focus on combating the deadly fentanyl crisis plaguing American communities. “I’m proud of the outstanding work by our agents and grateful for the strong partnership of the DEA in this joint effort,” Patel stated.

Atlanta- Convicted Felon Indicted for Operating Enormous Fentanyl Pill Pressing Lab with Weapons Stashhttps://t.co/acoP6Dvtu0

On June 5, 2025, DEA Atlanta and FBI seized over 214 pounds of fentanyl (powder and pill form) which has the potential lethal dose to kill approximately… pic.twitter.com/8pXgEd586v

— DEAAtlanta (@DEAATLANTADiv) June 10, 2025

“This was a major takedown – dozens of weapons, large quantities of fentanyl and meth, and key members of a sophisticated drug network taken off the streets. Together, we’ve dealt a serious blow to those profiting off addiction and reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to protecting American communities,” Patel added.

The @FBIAtlanta and the DEA make HUGE drug bust. They say they found enough fentanyl to kill everyone in #Georgia at least four times. They also found other drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine.@FOX5Atlanta

Details: https://t.co/MwidBI5U36 pic.twitter.com/QbBh6OMJne

— Tyler Fingert (@TylerFingert) June 10, 2025

Operation Reveals Sophisticated Drug Network

During the raid at Harralson’s residence, agents discovered large quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and firearms. Ironically, they also found a book titled “How to Avoid Federal Drug Charges,” which clearly failed to help the alleged drug kingpin.

Further searches revealed pill press machines, hydraulic presses, binding agents, and additional firearms with ammunition. The operation was part of the broader “Operation Take Back America” initiative aimed at dismantling cartels and transnational criminal organizations that have flourished during the border crisis.

Paul Brown, FBI Special Agent in Charge, emphasized the urgency of this work: “Right now, we have an American dying every seven minutes from drug overdoses, and homicides occur twice each hour. Our new FBI director, Kash Patel, has given our workforce a simple mandate: crush violent crime, and this is a big step toward that end in metro Atlanta.”

Harralson now faces multiple charges including possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. If convicted, he could face at least 40 years to life in federal prison.