Approximately 30 buckets totaling more than 900 pounds of liquid methamphetamine were discovered and extracted by Customs and Border Protection officers at the Otay Mesa cargo facility. Photo: U.S. Customs and Border Protection

By SDCN Editor

Otay Mesa, CA–U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers from the San Diego Field Office intercepted a major smuggling attempt of liquid methamphetamine concealed in the fuel tanks of a commercial tractor.

The incident occurred on October 3 around 12:30 p.m. at the Otay Mesa cargo facility, CBP said.

The driver of the tractor, a 49-year-old woman, applied for entry to the United States through the cargo facility by presenting a valid B1/B2 border crossing card. CBP officers referred the driver and tractor to the secondary inspection area for further examination.

During the inspection, an officer discovered 942.12 pounds of liquid meth concealed in the tractor’s fuel tanks. A total of 30 five-gallon buckets were extracted by officers.

“Our officers are 100% committed to safeguarding our borders and are dedicated to disrupting drug trafficking organizations,” said Rosa Hernandez, Port Director for the Otay Mesa port of entry.

The liquid meth has an estimated street value of $1,413,180.

The narcotics and tractor were seized by CBP officers. The driver was turned over to Homeland Security Investigations for further processing.