U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry seized more than 430 pounds of cocaine and methamphetamine in two separate incidents last week, with an estimated street value totaling $2.8 million, according to an April 16 announcement.
The seizures are significant due to the large quantity and value of narcotics intercepted before they could enter American communities.
The first seizure took place on April 7 when a 51-year-old male Mexican national driving a Toyota Prius was referred for secondary inspection. A CBP canine team alerted officers to the vehicle, leading to the discovery of 44 packages of cocaine hidden inside the doors, back seat, and rear quarter panels. The cocaine weighed about 124 pounds and was valued at approximately $2.4 million.
On April 8, a second incident involved a 21-year-old male U.S. citizen driving a Nissan Frontier who was participating in the Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection program. Officers used imaging technology and another canine team during inspection, which led them to a non-factory compartment in the truck bed containing about 307 pounds of methamphetamine worth roughly $491,200.
“These back-to-back seizures stopped dangerous criminals in their tracks and prevented deadly narcotics from ever reaching our communities,” said Otay Mesa Port Director Rosa E. Hernandez. “By combining their professional expertise with advanced technology, our officers demonstrate their commitment to securing our borders and keeping our country safe.”
CBP reported that all drugs and vehicles were seized following these incidents, while both drivers were arrested for federal prosecution.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as America's frontline law enforcement organization with over 67,000 personnel dedicated to protecting national security through innovation and collaboration.
