Two Indian nationals in New Jersey have been charged after authorities intercepted nearly 19 kilograms of dried poppy pods containing morphine that were shipped from the Netherlands to a private home in Bergen County, NJ.
24-year-old Karanjit Singh and 25-year-old Jagroop Singh face charges of possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, Bergen County prosecutor Mark Musella said. ICE has lodged detainers against both men, meaning they could face deportation for committing serious crimes and not being US citizens.
Homeland Security Investigations and US Customs and Border Protection intercepted the shipment, authorities said in January.
It was intended for delivery to the Wood-Ridge residence in NJ.
Tests showed the dried poppy pods contained morphine, which is a controlled dangerous substance in the United States.
On 30 January, detectives carried out a court-approved search at the home and found the Singhs living there. They also discovered the poppy pods and other items used to distribute drugs, Musella said.
Both men were arrested and charged with second-degree possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance.