Cargo Largo identifies source of drug-laced Barbies, assures public is safe

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. (KCTV) – Cargo Largo has identified the source of cocaine and fentanyl-laced Barbie dolls and says the public is no longer at risk.

The company confirmed the origin of the drugs in a statement on Tuesday, March 24, saying it had shared all relevant information with local and federal authorities.

Company leaders promised continued cooperation with the ongoing investigation.

According to Cargo Largo, the lab testing confirmed the substance found in the dolls was cocaine with trace amounts of fentanyl – an update from initial field tests that only indicated the presence of fentanyl.

The Independence Police Department confirmed that all items from the contaminated shipment have been recovered and that there is no remaining risk to the public.

K-9 Units Clear Both Facilities

On Monday evening, the retailer said IPD K-9 units swept both Cargo Largo’s retail store and warehouse. No risks were identified.

A routine shopping trip turned into a terrifying discovery for a local mother after she found...
A routine shopping trip turned into a terrifying discovery for a local mother after she found fentanyl hidden inside a Barbie doll package purchased at Cargo Largo in Independence.(Courtesy Jade Adams)

Company leaders said K-9s Maddox, Blitz and Vinnie – along with their handlers – joined the store’s security team for the sweep.

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“This partnership is a win-win: the K-9s get valuable training in a real-world environment to keep their skills sharp and we get an expert ‘all-clear’ to ensure our space remains safe for associations and customers,” a company spokesperson said.

What’s Next

Cargo Largo said it will schedule regular inspections of both facilities going forward. The K-9 teams that conducted Monday’s sweep will continue routine training as part of an ongoing safety commitment.

“Thank you for your patience as we work through the details of this investigation,” the spokesperson said. “While we cannot share every detail of the active investigation, we have the following updates.”

Due to internet issues, Cargo Largo indicated that its reopening has been postponed to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24.

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