U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Port of Naco intercepted a methamphetamine smuggling attempt on February 18. The incident occurred when a 46-year-old male Mexican citizen sought entry into the United States driving a Chevrolet pickup truck. CBP officers directed the driver to secondary inspection for further scrutiny.
During the inspection, non-intrusive technology identified irregularities within the vehicle, prompting a canine inspection that detected narcotics. A detailed search uncovered a concealed compartment in the truck's rear bed containing 26 packages filled with approximately 159 pounds of methamphetamine. The street value of the seized drugs is estimated at $167,067.
Martin Gomez, Area Port Director for Douglas/Naco, stated, "We remain steadfast in our mission to stop contraband from entering the country." He emphasized that CBP officers are essential in assessing threats and preventing deception while enabling legitimate travel.
The driver was handed over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations following the seizure of both drugs and vehicle. Under federal law, charges can be filed against individuals by complaint without implying guilt; they are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt.
CBP's Office of Field Operations is responsible for anti-terrorism efforts at national ports. Officers screen all incoming people, vehicles, and goods while facilitating lawful trade and travel. Their duties include narcotics interdiction and enforcing immigration and trade laws.
For more information or to report suspicious activities such as terrorism or drug trafficking, contact CBP via their social media accounts or through their tipline at 1-866-739-9118.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection stands as America's primary border management agency with over 65,000 personnel dedicated to protecting national security across various domains.
