Operation TKO
In 2003, Operation TKO was a probe conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). As a result of operation TKO, U.S. and Mexican authorities shut down the Mexico City company, Laboratorios Ttokkyo, which was the biggest producer of ketamine in Mexico producing almost 80%-to-90% of the Ketamine found in the United States. This was also the most successful crackdown ever on performance-enhancing drugs. The original goal of the operation was to cut off the supply of ketamine but it led to stopping the production of illegal steroids.,[1][2]
Subsequently, Ernesto Chevreuil Bravo, 43, a Tijuana veterinary pharmacy owner, was convicted of distributing the material, while Ttokkyo owner Jose Francisco Molina was deported to Mexico, where he is facing similar charges.[3]
Ketamine in Society
According to the DEA, over 80% of Ketamine seized in the U.S. is of Mexican origin. The World Health Organization Expert Committee on Drug Dependence, in its thirty third report, recommended research into its recreational use/misuse due to growing concerns about its rising popularity in Europe, Asia and North America. This due in part to its prevention of depression.[4]
References
- ^ SI.com - More Sports - The Mexican Connection (cont.) - Wednesday July 18, 2007 3:35PM
- ^ "Breakup of Drug Ring is Momentary Victory" New York Times September 29, 2007
- ^ "Tijuanan gets prison in ketamine case" San Diego Union Tribune April 26, 2005
- ^ ABC News: Ketamine, a Tranquilizer and Popular Club Drug, May Work for Depression