U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in San Diego executed a series of enforcement actions throughout June, targeting narcotics, weapons, currency, and protected wildlife. These operations reflect CBP's ongoing dedication to national security, public safety, and environmental conservation.
During the month, CBP officers intercepted approximately 8,915 pounds of illicit drugs such as methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl at various ports of entry and cargo facilities in San Diego. The street value of these seizures is estimated to exceed $19.9 million.
A significant seizure occurred at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry where officers found 25 pounds of white fentanyl powder and 2.5 pounds of blue fentanyl pills hidden in a minivan's firewall and wheel well. At the Calexico West Port of Entry, officers discovered 265 pounds of methamphetamine concealed inside a sedan's floor, doors, and gas tank. Additionally, 766 pounds of methamphetamine were uncovered at the Tecate Cargo Facility within the roof of a tractor-trailer.
CBP also targeted financial crimes by intercepting vehicles attempting to smuggle large amounts of undeclared U.S. and foreign currency during inspections. Two cases alone resulted in seizures totaling more than $100,000.
In efforts against weapons trafficking, CBP confiscated five firearms including pistols and rifles from individuals or vehicles. A notable case involved a Trusted Traveler participant found with a Glock 26 pistol and various ammunition magazines.
“These seizures are a direct result of the dedication, experience, and vigilance of our frontline officers and agents,” stated Sidney Aki, CBP Director of Field Operations in San Diego.
Environmental protection was another focus for CBP in June. Officers at the San Ysidro Port of Entry found 14 toucans hidden inside a vehicle dashboard in an attempted smuggling operation. In another incident involving wildlife trade violations, a traveler was fined $5,000 for trying to import over 145 pounds of sea cucumbers without proper declaration.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is America's largest law enforcement organization responsible for border management across ground, airspace, and maritime environments.
