U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Calexico East Port of Entry Commercial Facility stopped a drug smuggling attempt on September 17, 2025. Officers discovered almost 186 pounds of cocaine hidden inside a car hauler trailer.
The incident began when a male driver arrived at the facility with a tractor-trailer carrying a car hauler. The driver said he was traveling to Pomona, California, to pick up vehicles for delivery to Mexicali, Mexico. After an initial inspection, CBP officers decided to conduct a more detailed examination.
Officers used X-ray technology during the secondary inspection and found irregularities in the car hauler. A K9 unit alerted officers to the presence of drugs, and further physical checks led to the discovery of 70 packages containing a white powdery substance inside the trailer. Field tests confirmed it was cocaine.
CBP then contacted Homeland Security Investigations from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Special Agents arrived at the scene and took over the investigation. The case will be prosecuted at the federal level, and the driver has been taken into custody.
Calexico Port of Entry Director Roque Caza stated: “This seizure highlights the dedication and vigilance of CBP officers in protecting our nation’s borders and preventing dangerous drugs from entering our communities. Our officers work tirelessly to disrupt criminal organizations and safeguard the public.”
CBP seized both the cocaine and the vehicle as evidence. The driver's visa was canceled, and he faces federal charges for drug smuggling.
The agency says it remains focused on securing borders while allowing legal trade and travel. It continues to use advanced technology, intelligence-led operations, and cooperation with other agencies to fight transnational criminal groups.
For updates from CBP’s San Diego Field Office, follow @DFOSanDiegoCA on social media.
