Ep 2. Fentanyl

In season 1 episode 2 of Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the dangerous world of fentanyl trafficking. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is highly addictive and up to 100 times more potent than morphine. It has become an epidemic in America, causing thousands of deaths each year. In this episode, Mariana van Zeller goes on a quest to uncover the sources of fentanyl in the United States.

The episode begins with the story of a young man named Michael. He became addicted to fentanyl after he was given the drug for pain relief following a sports injury. He eventually turned to dealing fentanyl to support his habit, and his story is a powerful reminder of the human toll of the fentanyl epidemic.

Mariana then travels to Mexico, where she meets with a drug lord who claims responsibility for a large portion of the fentanyl entering the United States. He explains the economics of fentanyl trafficking, and how it is more profitable than selling heroin or cocaine. Mariana is able to gain unprecedented access to the inner workings of this dangerous and secretive world, getting a glimpse of the violent reality that traffickers and their victims face.

The episode also explores the role of law enforcement in combating the fentanyl epidemic. Mariana speaks with DEA agents who are on the front lines of the battle against fentanyl traffickers. They describe the challenges they face in trying to shut down the trafficking networks, and the danger they face in doing so. Mariana also speaks with doctors and addiction specialists who are working to help those who have become addicted to fentanyl, and are trying to prevent others from falling into the same trap.

Overall, the episode is a sobering look at the devastating impact of the fentanyl epidemic in America. It highlights the complex web of factors that contribute to the problem, from the economics of drug trafficking to the challenges of treatment and addiction prevention. Through Mariana's investigative reporting and powerful storytelling, viewers are able to gain a deeper understanding of this urgent public health crisis.