By SDCN Editor
Otay Mesa, CA–U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers assigned to the Otay Mesa port of entry Monday discovered fentanyl pills and methamphetamine concealed in the dashboard, center console, and spare tire compartment of a vehicle.
On Monday, at approximately 9:30 p.m., CBP officers were conducting vehicle enforcement inspections in the pre-primary area. Officers encountered a 23-year-old female driving a 2000 sedan. During an initial inspection, officers noticed plastic-wrapped packages in the spare tire compartment. They referred the traveler to a secondary inspection for further examination.
Upon inspection, officers discovered and extracted a total of 109 packages throughout the vehicle. The narcotics were tested and identified as fentanyl pills with a total weight of 25.26 pounds and methamphetamine with a total weight of 68.60 pounds.
The narcotics combined are worth an estimated street value of $838,520.
“Our officers are experts in the observation of human behavior, and it is evident that their continuous efforts and commitment to public safety are a priority,” stated Rosa Hernandez, Port Director for the Otay Mesa port of entry.
The driver was detained for the alleged narcotic smuggling attempt. Officers turned the driver over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations for further disposition.
CBP seized the vehicle and narcotics.