Agents from the U.S. Border Patrol's San Clemente Station conducted a significant cocaine seizure on May 19. The incident occurred at 5:15 p.m. when agents stopped a grey sedan on the I-5 freeway near the Basilone Road exit. Following an interview with the driver, a K-9 unit was called to assist, which resulted in a positive alert for narcotics.
Upon inspecting the vehicle, agents found two cardboard boxes in the trunk containing packages that appeared consistent with smuggled drugs. Both the driver and suspected narcotics were taken to a nearby Border Patrol station for further investigation.
At the station, it was confirmed that 25 packages contained cocaine, weighing a total of 66.14 pounds and valued at approximately $451,500 on the street. The driver and drugs were handed over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), with charges pending prosecution for narcotics offenses. The vehicle was seized by Border Patrol.
"This seizure is yet another great example of the unwavering commitment and vigilance of our Border Patrol agents," said San Diego Sector Acting Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey Stalnaker. "These successes are a result of dedicated teamwork; every load we interdict represents saved lives and safer communities."
Before this incident, San Diego Sector had confiscated 2,586 pounds of cocaine in fiscal year 2025 along with other narcotics including methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is described as America's frontline agency —the largest law enforcement organization globally— safeguarding borders on land, air, and sea while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
