
The Hawai‘i Police Department (HPD) has released its monthly drug report, highlighting two fentanyl-related arrests on the island for December 2024 and the recovery of just over 0.8 grams of the substance. While the quantity may seem small, fentanyl is extremely potent; according to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), as little as two milligrams—roughly the size of a couple of grains of table salt—can be fatal.
Within that month alone, the 0.81 grams of illicit fentanyl rounded up by Hawai‘i's law enforcers was enough to kill over four hundred individuals. As per the information released by HPD. Police recovered 562.94 grams of illicit fentanyl through 2024, simultaneously making 50 arrests—all of which were related to fentanyl offensives. Furthermore, officers retrieved a staggering 5,664.5 pills laced with the dangerous opioid over the same period. To put that in perspective, it's enough to potentially end the lives of every resident on Hawai‘i Island, and nearly all those residing on Kaua‘i.
The Hawai‘i Police Department (HPD) continues to prioritize efforts to combat the illegal drug trade, targeting those involved in the distribution and sale of narcotics. HPD has noted that fentanyl, similar to trends seen on the mainland, is increasingly being found in counterfeit prescription pills in Hawai‘i, leading to a rise in overdose-related incidents.
The Hawai‘i Police Department provides resources for those seeking information on fentanyl safety, identifying poisoning symptoms, or learning more about the opioid. The department also offers an anonymous tip line for reporting drug distribution or illegal activity. Residents can call (808) 329-"ZERO-ICE" for Kaʻū, Kona, South Kohala, and North Kohala, or (808) 934-"VICE" for Puna, South Hilo, and Hāmākua. All tips are confidential, and callers are not required to provide identifying information.