U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized nearly $2.8 million worth of fentanyl and methamphetamine in two separate incidents at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, according to an April 29 announcement.
The seizures underscore ongoing efforts by border officials to intercept dangerous narcotics before they reach communities across the United States.
On April 19, officers discovered more than 116 pounds of fentanyl and methamphetamine concealed within a vehicle's roof during a secondary inspection. A nonintrusive image scan revealed anomalies, which were confirmed by a canine team. Officers found 94 packages containing approximately 35 pounds of fentanyl powder valued at nearly $1.95 million, along with over 80 pounds of methamphetamine worth about $80,550. The driver, a 27-year-old female Mexican national, was taken into custody and faces federal charges for importing narcotics.
In another incident on April 13, officers seized over 14 pounds of fentanyl powder hidden inside the rear quarter panels of a Toyota Corolla driven by a 20-year-old male Mexican citizen enrolled in the Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection program. The drugs had an estimated street value of $764,727 and were equivalent to roughly half a million fentanyl pills. The driver was arrested and federal authorities accepted the case for prosecution.
"Smugglers use complex techniques to conceal dangerous narcotics like fentanyl and methamphetamine," said San Ysidro Port Director Mariza Marin. "I am proud of the unwavering dedication of our CBP officers, supported by our canine teams and advanced inspection technology," Marin continued. "Their efforts directly prevent these deadly narcotics from reaching our streets and protecting countless lives."
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is described as America's frontline law enforcement organization with more than 67,000 personnel working to protect borders on land, air, and sea.
