U.S. Border Patrol agents, with the assistance of a canine team, discovered a significant amount of methamphetamine hidden inside a Mercedes-Benz SUV on the evening of April 22. The discovery was made at the Interstate 19 Immigration Checkpoint near Amado by agents from the Nogales Station.
The vehicle was directed to a secondary inspection after the canine team alerted to it in the primary inspection lane. During this inspection, agents found over 60 cellophane-wrapped methamphetamine bundles dispersed throughout the SUV.
"Smugglers should take note – If you try to smuggle drugs through our checkpoints, you will be caught, and you will face federal prosecution," stated Tucson Sector Chief Patrol Agent Sean L. McGoffin. "Our agents and canine teams are highly trained, vigilant, and unwavering in their mission to protect our communities from these dangerous substances."
The driver and passenger, both residents of the local area, were arrested. The methamphetamine and the vehicle were seized and handed over to the Drug Enforcement Administration, which will manage the criminal proceedings.
Updates on this and similar cases can be followed on X, where Tucson Sector Chief is available at @USBPChiefTCA, and general updates are provided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at @CBPArizona.
Community assistance is encouraged by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and suspicious activities can be reported anonymously at 1-877-872-7435. Reporting such activities has the potential to save lives.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection plays a critical role as America's frontline and the world's first unified border management agency. With over 65,000 personnel, the organization ensures national security and economic prosperity while facilitating safe and lawful travel and trade.
