San Diego Sector Border Patrol agents, working with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, intercepted a significant heroin smuggling attempt on Wednesday night. The incident occurred at 6:45 p.m. when agents from the San Clemente Border Patrol Station stopped a vehicle traveling northbound on Interstate 5.
A Border Patrol K-9 unit detected narcotics in the vehicle, leading to a search of the trunk where agents found 29 packages hidden inside a cardboard box. The packages tested positive for heroin and weighed a total of 71.65 pounds. Authorities estimate the street value of the seized drugs at $292,500.
The driver, identified as a Mexican national, was taken into custody along with the narcotics and vehicle for further processing at a nearby Border Patrol station. Both the driver and the heroin were handed over to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, where state narcotics charges will be pursued.
“This heroin smuggling attempt is another example of the threats our agents face in combating foreign terrorist organizations that push deadly drugs into American communities,” said San Clemente Station Patrol Agent in Charge Orlando E. Romero. “It also demonstrates the strength of our agency when we collaborate with other local, state, and federal agencies.”
The U.S. Border Patrol continues to monitor routes away from national borders to prevent illegal smuggling activities involving humans, drugs, and other contraband. The public is encouraged to report suspicious activity by contacting 911 or reaching out to San Diego Sector authorities at (619) 498-9900.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as America’s largest law enforcement organization and highlights its role in protecting national security through collaboration and innovation.
