U.S. Border Patrol agents affiliated with the San Diego Sector successfully intercepted a substantial amount of Xanax pills during a routine check on Interstate 5, just north of San Diego. This significant operation took place on April 16, around 4:50 p.m., when agents from the San Clemente Station stopped a black pickup truck cruising northbound near Camp Pendleton.
In a standard procedure, agents conducted a brief interview with the driver and called upon a K-9 unit to investigate the vehicle. The K-9 soon indicated the possible concealment of narcotics. Subsequently, agents uncovered 11 boxes containing packages marked as Farmapram, which is the brand name equivalent of Xanax in Mexico.
Xanax is categorized as a schedule IV narcotic, frequently prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders but susceptible to misuse, posing serious risks. Upon further investigation at the Border Patrol station, authorities documented 90,090 pills, with an estimated market value exceeding $600,000.
The driver was handed over to the Drug Enforcement Administration and is now facing state charges for alleged possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
Jeffrey Stalnaker, Acting Chief Patrol Agent of the San Diego Sector, remarked, “This seizure sends a clear message: we will not tolerate dangerous drugs on our streets. Our agents work around the clock to shut down drug trafficking operations and to protect lives. This is a significant win, but our work continues.”
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the agency serves as the primary law enforcement entity at the nation's borders, with over 65,000 personnel tasked with maintaining national security and facilitating lawful trade and travel.
