U.S. Border Patrol agents from the San Diego Sector recently seized over 160 pounds of narcotics in two separate vehicle stops. The operations, which took place last week, intercepted illicit drugs with a combined street value exceeding $1.2 million.
The first incident occurred on February 18 at approximately 2:35 p.m., when agents stopped a suspicious vehicle traveling north on Interstate 5 near the San Clemente Border Patrol Checkpoint. Following an interview with the driver, a K-9 unit was called to assist, leading to a positive alert for narcotics. A search revealed packages of cocaine hidden in an aftermarket compartment in the floorboard. In total, 55 cellophane-wrapped packages were found, weighing 142.96 pounds and valued at over $1.1 million.
The Drug Enforcement Administration took custody of both the cocaine and the driver, who now faces narcotics-related charges. The U.S. Border Patrol also seized the vehicle involved.
A second event unfolded on February 19 at about 9:28 a.m., when agents stopped another vehicle at the Interstate 15 Temecula Border Patrol Checkpoint in Temecula, California. A K-9 unit again alerted officers to potential narcotics inside the vehicle. A subsequent search uncovered a backpack containing bundles resembling narcotics on the front passenger floorboard.
Testing confirmed that eight bundles contained fentanyl weighing 18.51 pounds and valued at around $143,000. The driver is charged with transportation and possession of a controlled substance for sale and has been handed over to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department along with the seized vehicle and drugs.
“These seizures underscore San Diego Sector’s unwavering commitment to protecting our communities from the dangers of illicit narcotics,” stated Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey D. Stalnaker of the San Diego Sector. “The successful interdiction of these drugs highlights the effectiveness of our Border Patrol agents and K-9 teams in the fight against these criminal organizations.”
During fiscal year 2024, San Diego Sector agents confiscated 2,862 pounds of cocaine and 782 pounds of fentanyl. Four months into this fiscal year, they have already seized more than 900 pounds of cocaine and over 150 pounds of fentanyl.
The U.S. Border Patrol remains vigilant along corridors away from national borders to prevent smuggling activities involving humans, drugs, and other contraband items.
U.S Customs and Border Protection (CBP) serves as America's frontline defense—the largest law enforcement organization in America tasked with border management responsibilities globally—employing over 65,000 personnel dedicated to safeguarding America by land, air or sea while facilitating legal travel/trade essential for economic prosperity through innovation intelligence collaboration trust-building measures
For reporting suspicious activity related to drug smuggling or any illegal actions please contact U.S.BorderPatrol via dialing911orSanDiegoSectorat(619)498-9900 ###
