Authorities seized nearly 50 pounds of methamphetamine hidden in an ice chest of fish at the Southern border in California. The incident took place at the Calexico West Port of Entry and involved a 34-year-old man who drove through the SENTRI lane. SENTRI is a program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.
CBP officers decided to conduct a further inspection of the sedan after it went through the SENTRI lane. They used the port’s imaging system to screen the vehicle and discovered irregularities within an ice chest in the trunk. A K-9 team was called in and found drugs in the ice chest. A total of 25 packages of methamphetamine with a weight of 47.13 pounds were discovered.
The driver, whose name was not released, was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations. The drugs and vehicle were seized by CBP officers from the San Diego Field Office. The confiscation was part of Operation Apollo, a counter-fentanyl effort that began in southern California in October and expanded to Arizona in April. The initiative focuses on intelligence and partnerships to target fentanyl smuggling into the country.
CBP officers expressed determination to combat drug trafficking, stating that traffickers will go to great lengths to deceive them. Calexico Area Port Director Roque Caza commended the officers for their diligent work in preventing dangerous drugs from entering the country. The confiscation of drugs on Sunday highlights the continued efforts of CBP to keep illicit substances out of the United States.
The incident is a part of the ongoing battle against drug smuggling at the Southern border. Operation Apollo, which focuses on targeting fentanyl trafficking, plays a crucial role in detecting and seizing illegal drugs. The partnership between CBP and other law enforcement agencies is essential in preventing drug-related crimes and protecting the public from the harmful effects of substances like methamphetamine.
The successful seizure of nearly 50 pounds of methamphetamine underscores the importance of vigilance and collaboration in combating drug trafficking. The dedication and hard work of CBP officers in intercepting illegal substances demonstrate their commitment to upholding border security and safeguarding the nation from the dangers of drug smuggling. Sunday’s operation is a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking networks operating along the Southern border.
