Jason Owens, Patrol Chief of United States Border Patrol, said that recent inspections on the border resulted in several multi-million dollar confiscations.
"Yesterday, USBP agents seized over $93K along the southwest borders. DYK: Since the beginning of the year (Jan 1), the Border Patrol has confiscated over $6.3 million originating from illicit activities, including bulk cash smuggling.", said Jason Owens.
The recently reported seizures are part of a broader context. Owens revelation comes on the heels that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers intercepted more than $8 million worth of fentanyl pills On Nov. 3.
According to a government news release, at approximately 9:55 a.m. at the Calexico West Port of Entry, CBP officers encountered a 23-year-old male applying for admission into the United States. The initial examination conducted by a CBP officer ended with a referral for further inspection.
In the inspection area, a non-intrusive inspection of the vehicle was conducted, using the port’s imaging system to screen the vehicle. A CBP K-9 team screened the vehicle and received a positive alert to presence of narcotics discovering dozens of suspicious packages.
Upon closer examination of these suspicious packages, CBP officers discovered a total of 41 packages concealed in spare tire and rear seat of truck, according to a CBP press release. The packages contained approximately 840,000 pills which tested positive for fentanyl, an estimated street value of $8,400,000.
"Fentanyl continues to be the deadliest drug threat our nation has ever encountered. This seizure is indicative of exceptional performance our officers display day after day", said Roque Caza, Calexico area port director, in the release. "Their vigilance and dedication are vital assets that make significant difference in our communities."
The repercussions of this discovery led to decisive actions by law enforcement. The narcotics and vehicle were seized by CBP and the driver was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations, according to the media release.
