U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Presidio port of entry seized 68 pounds of methamphetamine on December 7. The drugs were concealed in a vehicle driven by a 47-year-old female citizen of Mexico.
"CBP officers will employ a variety of tools and techniques to identify and stop drug smugglers," stated CBP Presidio Port Director Benito Reyes Jr. "This layered enforcement approach allows CBP to quickly separate legitimate trade and travel from those who attempt to violate the laws of our nation."
The incident occurred shortly after 11 a.m. when a 2010 Honda Pilot with a lone female driver arrived from Mexico. CBP officers selected the vehicle for further examination.
Officers observed irregularities in the SUV's appearance and used a fiber optic scope to inspect the fuel tank, where they discovered bundles inside.
The fuel tank was removed, revealing 63 methamphetamine-filled bundles. The driver was arrested and handed over to Homeland Security Investigations special agents for federal charges related to the smuggling attempt.
CBP is recognized as America's largest law enforcement organization and the world's first unified border management agency, employing over 65,000 personnel. They are responsible for protecting America across various domains while facilitating safe travel and trade, contributing to national security through innovation and collaboration.