Two Arrested And 36 Pounds Of Opium Seized In Delaware Co.

By Craig Day, The News On 6

DELAWARE COUNTY -- Delaware County Sheriff's deputies made a monumental drug bust, one they believe is the biggest in state history, when they intercepted 36 pounds of pure opium on its way to Colcord. 

A suspicious package on its way to the post office in Colcord in Delaware County from Laos was first intercepted by postal inspectors in Dallas.

According to an arrest affidavit, federal agents found opium inside. A tracking device was placed in the box and it was sent on to Colcord where Delaware County deputies were waiting.

Captain Ron Teel investigates drug cases for the sheriff's office. In 26 years in law enforcement, he can only remember a handful of opium cases.

"Of course we knew it was coming, we were just waiting for the pick up time. It's just something you don't run across," said Captain Ron Teel, Delaware County Sheriff's Office.

Investigators say when two men came to pick up the package, they were followed by law enforcement, including  deputies.

"Probably 15, 20 miles altogether," Teel said.

The men were stopped just North of Jay.

"With our methamphetamine problem, and prescription problems being our biggest drug problems, this would have added a whole new dynamic to our society, our community and to us in law enforcement, trying to fight a whole new battle," Teel said.

People who live in Colcord, like Quincy Cantrell, are glad the drugs were seized.

"I hope they get it all off.  I don't like dope and any kind of narcotic, I just don't like it.  It's not good, not good for the kids," said Colcord resident Quincy Cantrell.
 
Jay residents Wang Khang, 25, and Xue Yang, 32, who showed up to pick up the shipment will face federal drug trafficking charges. They're each held in the Delaware County jail on a $1 million bond.