MANKATO, Minn. — Six people are now in custody after Mankato authorities found nearly 6,000 counterfeit pills containing fentanyl while carrying out a search warrant over the weekend.
According to the Blue Earth County Sheriff's Department (BECSD), the six individuals are being held on suspicion of first-degree sales and first-degree possession of a controlled substance. The suspects, whose ages range from 26 to 40, have not been officially charged as of Monday morning.
In a statement from the BECSD, officials said the Minnesota River Valley Drug Task Force discovered the thousands of counterfeit oxycodone pills that would later field test positive for fentanyl.
"The diligent work of law enforcement in this operation highlights their commitment to combatting the distribution of dangerous substances within our communities," the statement read.
"The efforts of the Drug Task Force in apprehending these individuals will hopefully prevent further harm and save lives. Holding those responsible accountable is an important step in addressing the opioid crisis."
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