CBP officers from the San Diego Field Office intercepted a significant quantity of illicit substances and ammunition at the Calexico West Port of Entry last week. In two separate incidents, they seized over 630 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and 114 pounds of fentanyl pills.

The first incident occurred on October 25, 2024, when a 26-year-old male attempted to enter the United States from Mexico in a red sedan. Officers, after an initial inspection, directed the vehicle for further examination. Using non-intrusive technology and a K-9 unit, officers detected narcotics concealed within the car's fender and bumper. The search revealed 44 packages containing fentanyl weighing a total of 114 pounds.

Two days later, on October 27, another smuggling attempt was thwarted at the same port. An 18-year-old male driving a blue sedan was subjected to secondary inspection following initial scrutiny by CBP officers. This examination uncovered five packages hidden in the quarter panels of the vehicle containing 636 rounds of ammunition.

“These seizures are indicative of the exceptional performance our officers display day after day," said Roque Caza, Calexico Area Port Director. "Their vigilance and dedication make a significant difference in our communities by keeping illicit ammunition off the streets and keeping deadly narcotics like fentanyl away from the people we hold dear to our hearts.”

Both suspects were arrested and handed over to Homeland Security Investigations for further inquiry. The seized narcotics, ammunition, and vehicles remain in CBP custody.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is recognized as America's largest law enforcement organization focused on border management duties with more than 65,000 personnel dedicated to ensuring security across land, air, and sea domains while facilitating lawful travel and trade.