U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Otay Mesa Cargo Facility seized more than 900 pounds of liquid methamphetamine hidden in the fuel tank of a tractor-trailer, according to a March 19 announcement.
The seizure highlights ongoing efforts by border officials to prevent illegal drugs from entering the United States and protect communities from dangerous narcotics.
The incident took place on March 2 when CBP officers encountered a 26-year-old male Mexican citizen driving a tractor-trailer seeking entry into the country. After an initial inspection, officers referred the driver and vehicle for further examination. Using nonintrusive inspection technology, they screened the vehicle and decided to conduct a more thorough search. During this process, officers opened the fuel tank and used a probe, discovering an unknown gel-like substance mixed with diesel fuel.
Officers extracted 29 five-gallon buckets of the liquid substance from the tank. Field tests confirmed it was methamphetamine, with a total weight of 944 pounds. "Thanks to the vigilance and expertise of our officers, we successfully intercepted 944 pounds of liquid methamphetamine concealed within the fuel tank of a tractor-trailer," said Otay Mesa Port Director Rosa Hernandez. "This significant seizure demonstrates our ongoing commitment to protecting our borders and preventing dangerous narcotics from reaching our communities."
The driver was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation. CBP seized both the narcotics and the tractor-trailer involved in the smuggling attempt. The agency continues to use advanced screening technology, K-9 teams, and officer expertise as part of its enforcement strategies against evolving smuggling tactics.
CBP describes itself as America's frontline law enforcement organization with more than 67,000 personnel working across land, air, and sea operations. The agency says it is committed to enforcing safe travel and trade while enhancing national security through innovation and collaboration.
