U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in the San Diego Field Office seized more than 6,100 pounds of narcotics valued at over $14 million in March, according to an April 15 announcement.
The seizures highlight ongoing efforts by CBP to disrupt drug trafficking and protect communities along the Southern California border. The large volume of drugs intercepted demonstrates the scale of smuggling attempts faced by law enforcement at regional ports of entry.
CBP reported that its officers confiscated 4,484 pounds of methamphetamine, 1,138 pounds of cocaine, 382 pounds of fentanyl, and 37 pounds of heroin at the San Ysidro, Otay Mesa, and Calexico ports. All suspects connected to these smuggling incidents were arrested and transferred to Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation. The agency also took possession of both the drugs and vehicles used for transportation.
Sidney K. Aki, Director of Field Operations for San Diego, said: “The mission at CBP and the San Diego Field Office is clear: protect our borders, safeguard our nation, and ensure the safety of our communities. Our officers’ dedication and vigilance led to over $14 million in narcotics seizures in March alone, underscoring our commitment to disrupting the flow of dangerous drugs and protecting our communities.”
The San Diego Field Office covers several ports within Southern California including San Ysidro, Otay Mesa, Tecate, Calexico East/West as well as Andrade. U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as America’s frontline with more than 67,000 personnel working across land borders as well as air and sea environments.
