Azer Arslanouk, Fentanyl Cocaine Trafficking, New York 2023

New York Attorney General Letitia James has announced the dismantling of a Brooklyn-based fentanyl and cocaine trafficking ring, with Azer Arslanouk, 36, from Ocean Township, New Jersey, being charged for his role in this illegal operation.

The AG’s Organized Crime Task Force (OCTF) conducted an extensive investigation that resulted in the seizure of over 8,887 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and nearly 891 grams of cocaine, valued at approximately $100,000. Arslanouk faces a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Attorney General James emphasized the gravity of the situation: ‘Drug traffickers who hide fentanyl in counterfeit prescription drugs are putting New Yorkers suffering from opioid addiction in grave danger. This investigation took thousands of deadly pills off the street, and my office will continue fighting to stop the opioid crisis in our communities.’

New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James praised the collaboration between law enforcement agencies: ‘The sale of these illegal drugs perpetuates a cycle of substance abuse and poses a significant threat to safety and quality of life in our neighborhoods. This arrest speaks volumes of the tremendous coordination between law enforcement partners to stop the individuals that fuel these dangerous acts.’

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Farhana Islam echoed similar sentiments: ‘Counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl continue to be a lethal threat to unsuspecting users. This operation undoubtedly saved lives, and we will continue to work with Attorney General James and our law enforcement partners across New York state.’

The investigation spanned 30 months and involved extensive surveillance, GPS tracking, covert cameras, and undercover operations. The evidence revealed that Arslanouk sold the illegal substances from a storefront at 9 Lake Street in Gravesend, Brooklyn, using encrypted messaging apps to communicate with buyers.